Southwest Florida remains gripped by the baffling disappearance of two experienced boaters—Fort Myers attorney Randall Spivey, 57, and his nephew Brandon Billmaier, 33—who vanished during a routine fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico earlier this month. As the U.S. Coast Guard suspended its active search just before Christmas, families and the community continue to grapple with the unknown, while the FBI has stepped in to investigate what happened in those critical moments at sea.

The pair set out early on Friday, December 19, 2025, from Spivey’s home in Iona near Fort Myers aboard his 42-foot Freeman catamaran named “Unstopp-A-Bull.” They were bottom-fishing far offshore, about 70 to 102 miles out, and expected to return by sunset. When they didn’t, worried relatives alerted authorities around 9 p.m. A massive search kicked off immediately, involving helicopters, boats, and volunteers from across the region.

By early Saturday morning, a Coast Guard crew located the vessel adrift, still running and in gear, roughly 70 miles west of Fort Myers near Naples. Shockingly, it was empty—no sign of Spivey or Billmaier. Two life jackets were missing, sparking initial hope that the men might have donned them and could be floating somewhere. But after days of scouring an area larger than the state of Connecticut—nearly 6,700 square miles—no trace was found.

The Coast Guard called off the search at sunset on Monday, December 22, describing it as one of the toughest decisions they’ve had to make. In a statement, they expressed gratitude to volunteers and extended condolences to the families. Deborah Billmaier, Brandon’s wife, echoed that sentiment on social media, saying the men “would never want anyone else to put their life in danger” and asking the public to respect the suspension. Yet she and others remain resolute in holding onto hope.

Both men were seasoned on the water and known for prioritizing safety. Spivey, a personal injury lawyer with over 30 years in Southwest Florida, was described by family as a devoted husband and father who “would do anything for his family.” Billmaier, who recently married and worked as a trial attorney at the Shiner Law Group in Boca Raton, followed in his uncle’s footsteps, advocating for the injured. Friends called them lights in the community—responsible, passionate about fishing, and deeply connected, with Brandon viewing Randy as a second father.

Theories about what unfolded have swirled. Coast Guard officials suggested one man may have fallen overboard while the other tried to help, causing the boat to drift away as it remained in gear. No distress signals were sent, and the vessel showed no signs of damage or foul play. Families noted the men were likely wearing or had access to safety gear.

As the holidays approached, the absence weighed heavily. Tricia Spivey, Randall’s wife, pleaded publicly for answers, while Deborah shared updates, thanking searchers and clinging to optimism. Volunteers poured in from far and wide, some on off-duty time, coordinating grids and braving rough conditions.

Now, the case has transitioned to the FBI, which classified it as a missing persons investigation. Agents are examining the unusual circumstances—no wreckage, no bodies, just an empty boat found far out in calm waters. The probe aims to piece together the final hours, reviewing any potential communications or overlooked details.

The community has rallied impressively. Fundraisers, prayer vigils, and social media campaigns keep the story alive, with rewards offered for information leading to recovery. Law firms associated with the men issued statements expressing shock and support, highlighting their dedication to helping others.

This isn’t the first time the Gulf has claimed lives mysteriously, but the lack of closure here hits hard. Experienced boaters vanishing without a mayday call leaves room for endless speculation—medical emergency, accidental fall, or something unforeseen. No evidence points to violence or external factors.

As 2025 draws to a close, the families face a somber new year without answers. Deborah spoke of finding solace in knowing Brandon spent his last moments doing what he loved—fishing with family. Friends like Paul Rocuant, who coordinated volunteers, vowed not to give up.

The disappearance serves as a stark reminder of the sea’s unpredictability, even for the prepared. Boating safety advocates have renewed calls for EPIRBs, personal locators, and buddy systems on offshore trips.

While official searches have paused, private efforts and the FBI inquiry continue. For now, Randall Spivey and Brandon Billmaier remain missing, their story an open wound for loved ones and a haunting mystery beneath the waves. The hope is that one day, the Gulf will give up its secrets and bring them home.