The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) has confirmed the tragic death of 24-year-old Nicholas Bunchik, whose body was recovered from a canal in Loxahatchee on Sunday. The discovery ended a desperate search launched after his family reported him missing earlier the same day.
Bunchik was last seen leaving his Loxahatchee home around 2 a.m. on Saturday, riding his ATV. When he failed to return or make contact, his family grew concerned and alerted authorities. Friends and family joined forces, combing the surrounding area in hopes of finding him safe.
On Sunday, searchers found evidence near the 17700 block of 68th Street North that pointed to a possible accident. Tire marks and signs of a vehicle leaving the roadway led to a nearby canal. Authorities investigated the area and recovered Bunchik’s body, later confirming his identity.
Preliminary findings suggest that Bunchik may have lost control of his ATV, causing it to veer off the road and into the canal. The circumstances of the accident remain under investigation, as officials work to piece together the events leading to the tragedy.
Bunchik’s death has left his family and friends devastated. Many in the Loxahatchee community have expressed their condolences and offered support during this difficult time. His passing serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with off-road vehicles, particularly in low-visibility conditions or challenging terrain.
This incident underscores the importance of ATV safety, including staying on designated trails, using proper lighting, and exercising caution during nighttime rides. As authorities continue their investigation, the focus remains on providing closure to Bunchik’s loved ones and raising awareness to prevent similar accidents in the future.