The disappearance of Randall “Randy” Spivey, a 57-year-old prominent Fort Myers attorney, and his 33-year-old nephew Brandon Billmaier has gripped Southwest Florida since December 19, 2025. What began as a routine deep-sea fishing trip turned into a heartbreaking mystery when their 42-foot Freeman catamaran, named “Unstopp-A-Bull,” was found drifting empty about 70 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico.

The two men, both experienced fishermen and lawyers, set out early that Friday morning from a private dock in Iona, near Fort Myers. They were expected back by evening, but when they failed to return or respond to calls, family members alerted authorities around 9 p.m. Randy’s wife, Tricia, and Brandon’s wife, Deborah – a newlywed – immediately raised the alarm, describing the pair as safety-conscious avid anglers who had fished together countless times.

A massive search operation quickly mobilized, involving the U.S. Coast Guard, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, local fire departments, and hundreds of volunteers with private boats and aircraft. Helicopters and vessels scoured thousands of square miles, focusing on areas up to 100 miles offshore. Hope flickered when the boat was located early Saturday – still running, upright, and in good condition – but dashed upon discovery that no one was aboard. Notably, several life jackets were missing, suggesting the men may have donned them before whatever incident occurred.

The community rallied impressively, with friends and strangers dropping holiday plans to join the effort. Deborah Billmaier posted urgent pleas on social media, coordinating volunteer searches and expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support. Family members emphasized the men’s close bond – Brandon viewed Randy as a father figure – and their expertise on the water, making the vanishing all the more baffling.

In a stunning new development, authorities have reportedly recovered what is believed to be the final image of Spivey and Billmaier aboard their vessel. This photo was traced to an IP address in close proximity to the Gulf region where the disappearance unfolded. Law enforcement, working alongside the families, is analyzing the image and related digital traces for clues. Sources close to the investigation indicate that emerging evidence points to a potentially shocking revelation about the circumstances surrounding their fate.

As of December 22, the official Coast Guard search was suspended at sunset after covering vast areas equivalent to the size of Connecticut, transitioning to a more targeted effort. However, private searches continue, fueled by the families’ unwavering hope. The missing life jackets offer a glimmer of possibility that the men are adrift and awaiting rescue.

This case has left the tight-knit Fort Myers community in shock, with many describing Randy and Brandon as beloved figures dedicated to their families and professions. Questions swirl: Was it a sudden accident, rough seas, or something more sinister? The discovery of this “last photo” has intensified scrutiny, leaving everyone wondering what hidden truth it might unlock.

The families remain heartbroken but resolute, urging anyone with information to come forward. For now, the Gulf holds its secrets, and the search for answers presses on.