FBI investigation launched into missing SWFL boaters. Key details to be aware of

The FBI has launched an investigation into the disappearance of two men, Randall Spivey and Brandon Billmaier, who went missing while boating in the Gulf of Mexico on December 19. The search, which spanned thousands of miles, was eventually suspended, and the case is now being handled as a federal missing persons investigation.

The search for two men who disappeared while boating in the Gulf of Mexico has been escalated to a federal missing persons investigation under the supervision of the FBI.

Details of the Disappearance

• Missing Individuals: Randall Spivey, 57, and his nephew Brandon Billmaier, 33
• Date of Disappearance: Early morning, Friday, December 19
• Location: Approximately 70 miles off the coast of Naples, Florida
• Vessel: 42-foot Freeman boat named "Unstopp-A-Bull" with engine running

Spivey and Billmaier had embarked on a routine fishing trip and were scheduled to return the same evening. When they did not make contact, the Coast Guard was alerted. By 11 p.m., a helicopter was deployed, and the boat was located shortly after. The men were not on board, and two life jackets were missing, raising concern that they may have been wearing them at the time of disappearance.

Search Efforts

The search covered roughly 6,700 square miles, an area comparable in size to the state of Connecticut. Efforts included both volunteers and Coast Guard resources.

• Volunteers: From across Southwest Florida
• Duration: December 20
• United Cajun Navy: Deployed aircraft 100 miles west of Naples on December 22

Despite extensive efforts, the Coast Guard eventually suspended the active search. Capt. Corrie Sergent of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg stated that suspending a search is never an easy decision. She expressed gratitude to all crews, partners, and volunteers for their professionalism and compassion during the operation, while extending condolences to the families affected.

FBI Involvement

After the suspension of the search, the FBI assumed control of the investigation, officially classifying it as a missing persons case, according to the Lee County Sheriff's Office.

Timeline of Events

• December 19: Spivey and Billmaier depart for a fishing trip, expected to return the same evening
• 7:30 p.m.: Wives report the men missing
• 11 p.m.: Coast Guard deploys helicopter
• Approximately 1:30 a.m.: Boat located 70 miles off Naples; men not on board

Family Statements

Deborah Billmaier, wife of Brandon Billmaier, expressed her support for ending the search, stating that while the situation is heartbreaking, her husband and Spivey would not have wanted anyone else to risk their life, and she asked that the decision be respected.

Profiles of the Missing

• Randall Spivey: Personal injury attorney in Fort Myers and founder of Spivey Law Firm; married to Tricia Spivey, also a personal injury lawyer
• Brandon Billmaier: Personal injury attorney in Boca Raton with the Shiner Law Group; originally from Michigan, University of Toledo graduate; enjoyed fishing, pickleball, and traveling

Both men were known for their close family ties, community involvement, and were described by friends and colleagues as kind, generous, and dedicated professionals.

Community Reaction

The disappearance has elicited widespread attention in Southwest Florida. Friends and colleagues expressed shock and sadness through social media posts, highlighting the generosity and professionalism of the missing men. Support continues for the families during this difficult period.

Additional Context

This case has underscored the challenges of maritime search operations and the communitys commitment to supporting the affected families. The ongoing FBI investigation seeks to determine the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Spivey and Billmaier.

Sources:

• FBI Investigation Launched into Missing SWFL Boaters
• FBI Investigates Disappearance of Florida Boaters
• FBI Takes Over Investigation of Missing Boaters Off Florida Coast
• Search for missing SWFL boaters now an FBI investigation. What to know