Niamh Shackleton
A family-of-four are missing after their boat capsized in Alaska over the weekend, with relatives describing it as a 'horrible tragedy'.
David and Mary Maynard along with their two young sons, Colton, 11, and Brantley, seven, having been missing since Saturday (August 3).
The family - who hail from Texas - were on a 28-foot aluminum vessel with four other people while on vacation in Alaska for a wedding when the boat starting taking on water.
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The Coast Guard was notified about the boat that was starting to sink around 7.00pm on Saturday.
Four people were able to flee on a life raft and went on to be rescued by the Coast Guard, but the Maynards were nowhere to be seen.
A search for the family then ensued with the Alaska State Troopers and multiple good samaritan vessel crews assisting the Coast Guard.
Sadly the search was called off 24 hours later after failing to locate the Maynards.
"The decision to suspend a search is never easy and involves the careful consideration of many factors including environmental conditions and search operations," the US Coast Guard said in a statement.
"Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of the missing people during this unimaginably difficult time."
A fundraiser has been set up for the family as the search for them continues.
The bio of a GoFundMe page set up by Tanashea Aviles, someone who describes the Maynards as being like 'family' to her, reads: "The Maynards are not just friends, they are family to me and a lot of others. By now, a lot of us have heard about the tragic news.
"For those who don’t know, this sweet family of four was lost at sea on their vacation to Alaska. Mary’s parents are still there hoping to bring them home. This family is going through a lot right now. We are asking for prayers and donations if you can, to help with unexpected expenses that the family would have to cover so suddenly."
It goes on to speak of the 'huge imprint' the family have had on the local community and their loved ones.
"It is indescribable the void that will be left behind but I know if we come together as a family and a community they would know how much they meant to everyone," the page continued.
At the time of writing the fundraiser has surpassed its $15,000 target and has raised $15,425 so far.
UNILAD has contacted the US Coast Guard and Alaska State Troopers for further comment.