(NewsNation) — Maine State Police have ruled the death of missing paddleboarder Sunshine Stewart a homicide, they wrote in a social media post.
“The Maine State Police recognizes the fear and discomfort that this incident has brought to the town of Union and the Crawford Pond community,” police said in part of a statement. “We remain steadfast in our efforts to investigate the death of 48-year-old Sunshine Stewart of Tenants Harbor, whose death was ruled a homicide on Thursday, July 3, 2025.”
Stewart’s body was located by Maine game wardens after they were called to assist fire officials and authorities in the search for a missing paddleboarder in Union.
“I think it’s left everybody pretty shaken,” Kate Hamar said. “Especially on the holiday weekend. I think it probably really jarred some people.”
Stewart went out by herself in the evening July 2, but when she did not return six hours later, someone called the police to report her missing.
“Anyone blessed to be in her presence was in awe of her, her strength, courage, character, her energy and light,” said Kim Ware, Stewart’s sister.
Investigators acknowledged they searched a dumpster at Mic Mac Campground earlier this week.
Police said there have been no arrests in the case.