The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE community of Bailey Town, Bimini, is saddened by the apparent drowning of 64-year-old William “Stinky” Stuart, who was well loved by everyone in the tiny, close-knit settlement.

Stuart, and another man known as “Jay,” went fishing on Wednesday evening. When they did not return, family members notified police and Royal Bahamas Defence Force officers who, along with Bahamas Air Sea and Rescue (BASRA) officials, searched for them.

Bimini police reported that the body of one man was discovered in waters in the area of Bimini Harbour around 8am on Thursday. They are continuing the search for the other man who is still missing at sea.

Bailey Town resident Lloyd Edgecombe said that Stuart was very well-known in the community and will be greatly missed by everyone. “He was my adopted brother, and we got word that they found his body in the harbour, but they have not found the other man,” he told The Tribune on Friday.

According to Mr Edgecombe, “Jay” moved to Bimini a couple of months ago from Nassau. He said that the two men usually hung out and went fishing together.

Police reported that the men were last seen sitting in a small boat at the rear of a business shortly before 8pm on Wednesday.

Mr Edgecombe described Stuart as a very energetic person who greeted everyone he came in contact with a hug.

“He loved everyone and had a way of greeting people; he hugged and kissed you. Everyone knew him, he was the ambassador of Bailey Town, and he will be greatly missed in this community,” he said.

Police are investigating the matter.