Sunshine Stewart Obituary, Death: Maine paddleboarder’s death ruled a homicide
Sunshine Stewart Obituary, Death – Police in Maine are investigating the death of a paddleboarder as a homicide and are asking for the public’s help in identifying the person responsible. The victim, identified as 48-year-old Sunshine Stewart of Tenants Harbor, was found dead on Crawford Pond in the town of Union last Thursday. Authorities have confirmed that her death was the result of a homicide, though they have not yet disclosed the specific cause of death.
Stewart, who was affectionately known as “Sunny” by friends and loved ones, was last seen paddleboarding on July 2 between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. near 100 Acre Island on Crawford Pond. Maine State Police are urging anyone who may have seen her on the water during that time to come forward with information. In a statement released Wednesday evening, investigators said they remain fully committed to solving the case and bringing the perpetrator to justice.
Crawford Pond, located in Union, a town of roughly 2,400 people, is about 80 miles northeast of Portland and is a well-known spot for boating, fishing, and summer recreation. The pond spans about 600 acres and is surrounded by wooded areas and coves. The 100 Acre Island preserve, located in the center of the lake, is accessible by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard from nearby campgrounds. Given the terrain and the secluded nature of the area, police believe it’s possible that other people were on the lake at the time of the crime but may not have realized something was wrong.
Stewart lived roughly 30 minutes away from the pond and was known to frequent the area. Friends and family gathered at her home this week but declined to speak with reporters. A GoFundMe page created in her memory described Stewart as the “light in our lives” and noted that arrangements for her memorial were still being finalized. As of Wednesday, the fundraiser had collected more than \$19,000.
The community of Union has been shaken by the news. Residents described Stewart as a familiar and friendly presence at the lake. Longtime area resident Debbie Hilt, who said she knew Stewart since childhood, expressed her disbelief, calling the incident unlike anything the community had experienced. She noted that Crawford Pond has always been considered a peaceful and safe place, especially for family outings.
The nearby Mic Mac Cove Campground has been used by authorities as an access point for the investigation, though the crime scene is not located on campground property. The campground’s owner, Katharine Lunt, stated in a Facebook post that while the business is cooperating with law enforcement, it will not be commenting further at this time to avoid interfering with the investigation.
Police continue to pursue leads and tips and are urging the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activity. They acknowledged the fear the incident has caused and reassured residents that they are working diligently to solve the case.
