Authorities in Maine have charged a 17-year-old with murder in the case of a paddleboarder who went missing on Crawford Pond. The victim, Sunshine Stewart, 48, from Tenants Harbor, was reported missing, and her body was discovered earlier this month on the rural pond, which is located approximately 80 miles north of Portland. The shocking event has left the local community in fear, particularly as visits to the pond and its nearby campground are a beloved summer activity for residents.
The Maine State Police announced that the teenager was arrested without incident on Wednesday night in Union. Initial reports did not disclose the reasons for the arrest or the specific charges, but on Friday, the state attorney general’s office confirmed that the teen was charged with one count of murder. The name of the suspect has not been released, and there is currently no information on when the teen will appear in court.
The Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta has determined that the cause of Stewart’s death was strangulation and blunt force trauma. Furthermore, police have stated that their investigation remains active, urging anyone who might have seen Stewart paddleboarding on July 2 on Crawford Pond to come forward with information.
Sunshine Stewart lived just 21 miles from Crawford Pond, a popular summer destination close to the scenic coastal areas of Maine’s midcoast region. Friends spoke fondly of her, describing her as fiercely independent and adventurous, someone who was always ready for outdoor challenges and hands-on projects. Stewart had a diverse professional background, having worked as a fisherman and bartender, among other roles. According to Bruce Twyon, a friend who had known her from her time in the Virgin Islands, Stewart was characterized by her self-motivation and a vibrant approach to life. He reflected on her home renovation efforts in Tenants Harbor as a testament to her determination and zest for living life to the fullest.
The pond, situated in Union, which has a population of around 2,400 residents, spans approximately 600 acres and does not have public access. It is known for activities such as boating and fishing. The 100 Acre Island preserve in the center of the pond serves as a wooded island that can be accessed by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard from a nearby campground. Due to the pond’s numerous nooks and narrow spaces, police believe there may have been other boaters present at the time of the incident who were unaware of any danger.
In a statement, police attributed the arrest to "relentless investigative work," and the suspect has been transferred to the Long Creek Youth Development Center in South Portland. In the wake of Stewart’s death, her loved ones, who affectionately referred to her as “Sunny,” have initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help celebrate her life. They are in the process of determining dates for a memorial service.
