Tragic Trip: FBI Launches Probe into Missing Florida Lawyers Who Vanished from Fishing Boat Under ‘Unusual Circumstances’

On Christmas Day 2025, families in Southwest Florida face unimaginable grief as the FBI has officially taken over the investigation into the mysterious disappearance of two prominent attorneys—uncle and nephew Randall Spivey, 57, and Brandon Billmaier, 33—who vanished during a fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico. What began as a routine outing on December 19 turned tragic when their 42-foot Freeman boat, “Unstopp-A-Bull,” was discovered drifting empty, engine still running and in gear, about 70 miles offshore. The U.S. Coast Guard suspended its exhaustive search on December 22 after covering over 6,700 square miles, citing “unusual circumstances” that prompted the federal handover. No trace of the experienced boaters has been found, leaving a community stunned and questions mounting: Was this a freak accident, or something more?

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the FBI’s involvement, noting the location beyond territorial waters and the baffling details—no distress call, unused emergency beacon, and two missing life jackets. As investigators examine phone records, GPS data, and the vessel itself, the case shifts from rescue to a full missing persons probe.

The Fateful Outing: What Went Wrong?

Spivey and Billmaier, both avid fishermen familiar with Gulf waters, launched early on December 19 from a Fort Myers dock for a day of bottom fishing roughly 100 miles out. They were expected back by sunset, but by 9 p.m., concern escalated when no contact was made.

A massive multi-agency search ensued, involving Coast Guard helicopters, boats, and aircraft, plus volunteers from boating communities. The breakthrough came early December 21: the boat located upright and intact, but eerily vacant. The engine was engaged, the EPIRB active yet untouched, and conditions calm—winds low, seas moderate.

Capt. Corrie Sergent praised the effort but announced suspension at sundown December 22, expressing condolences. Families, briefed privately, supported the call, stating Spivey and Billmaier—advocates for safety—would agree “everything possible has been done.”

Profiles of the Men: Respected Lawyers and Family Men

Randall “Randy” Spivey was a cornerstone of Fort Myers’ legal scene, founding Spivey Law Firm and board-certified in civil trials—a rare honor. With over 30 years handling personal injury and wrongful death cases, he secured hundreds of millions for clients.

His nephew Brandon Billmaier followed suit, joining Shiner Law Group in Boca Raton in 2023 as a trial attorney. Recognized for client satisfaction, he was described as humble and dedicated. The pair shared a love for fishing, often bonding on the water.

Deborah Billmaier, Brandon’s wife, shared heartfelt posts, calling the situation “surreal” while thanking searchers.

Why the FBI? Unusual Details Raise Eyebrows

The handover to the FBI stems from jurisdiction over international waters and the oddities: no forced entry signs, no collision damage, and the running engine suggesting sudden departure from the helm.

Former agents note such cases often involve federal resources for offshore incidents. No foul play evidence has surfaced, but the “unusual circumstances” warrant deeper scrutiny.

Common theories include a man-overboard rescue attempt gone wrong—one falls, the other jumps in wearing life jackets, but the drifting boat escapes reach. Medical emergencies or fishing mishaps are also considered.

Community Shock and Ongoing Efforts

Southwest Florida rallied with volunteer boats and aircraft. Law firms mourned: Shiner Law Group called Billmaier a “valued member.”

On Christmas, families endure without closure. “We continue to pray,” statements read, urging tips to Coast Guard (866-881-1392) or local authorities.

The FBI’s probe may analyze digital forensics and interviews in coming weeks.

Questions Persist Amid Holiday Heartbreak

Why no EPIRB activation? Why no mayday? How did both vanish from a stable vessel?

As 2025’s holidays pass shadowed by loss, hope fades but the investigation presses on. Authorities emphasize evidence over speculation.

This tragic trip serves as a reminder of the sea’s unpredictability—even for the prepared.