Paddleboarder found dead in Maine ruled a homicide

In Maine, a tragic incident unfolded when 48-year-old Sunshine Stewart was found dead in Crawford Pond on July 2, 2025. She had gone missing after paddleboarding on the lake, prompting concern among her friends and family, particularly her roommate who reported her absence. Following the report, local police were notified and initiated a search in the area. This led to the discovery of her body a short time later during the search operation. An autopsy conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner revealed that her death was a homicide, although specifics regarding the cause of death have not been disclosed by authorities. The police investigation has been declared active and ongoing as they seek to uncover more details about the circumstances surrounding her untimely demise. In the hours following the discovery of her body, officials reached out to the public, especially those who might have seen her paddleboarding near 100 Acre Island. They provided a contact number for anyone with relevant information that could assist the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, the local community has been deeply affected. Residents described Sunshine Stewart as an exceptional and kind individual. A GoFundMe page was created to support her family, which has received significant contributions, reflecting the love and respect she garnered within her circle. Authorities have been working diligently, urging community members to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The ongoing investigation is expected to yield additional insights as more information becomes available, and the police have vowed to keep the public informed as the case progresses. The tragic nature of this incident has left those who knew her shaken, emphasizing the ripple effects of sudden loss and violence in communities.