Authorities have recovered the body of a missing fisherman from Lake Conroe, concluding a search that began over the weekend. The man has been identified as 44-year-old Stephen Marriott of Willis, Texas.
The situation unfolded Saturday evening when a 911 call was made around 9:16 p.m. reporting Marriott as an overdue boater. He had gone fishing near FM 1375 and the Cagle Boat Ramp but had not returned as expected. Law enforcement responded and located Marriott’s vehicle and boat trailer in Walker County. However, efforts to locate him were initially unsuccessful.
Later that night, at approximately 11:10 p.m., authorities discovered Marriott’s boat near a small island close to FM 137. Items recovered from the boat included his life vest and cellphone, but Marriott was nowhere to be found, prompting an extended search effort.
On Monday afternoon, Marriott’s body was located about 100 yards from where his boat had been found near FM 1375. Walker County Justice of Peace Judge Cole has ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of death as the investigation into the incident continues.
Officials are working to piece together the events that led to Marriott’s disappearance. Authorities have not yet indicated whether foul play is suspected or if the incident may have been the result of an accident. The investigation is expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The loss of Stephen Marriott has left the Willis community mourning. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers of boating and fishing, particularly in open waters. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of safety measures, including the consistent use of life vests, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.