Family of 4 Vanished on Cross-Country Trip to Alaska and Human Remains Were Just Found
The search for the family of four — David Maynard, 42, Mary Maynard, 37, Colton Maynard, 11, and Brantley Maynard, 8 — was launched in August 2024, according to the Alaska Department of Public Safety.
State troopers said the family was labeled missing after the initial search of Kachemak Bay near Homer was unsuccessful.
In April 2025, Alaska Wildlife Troopers were contacted by Support Vessels of Alaska, Vision Subsea, and Benthic Geoscience Inc., which 'offered use of their professional tools' to conduct a new search of the bay.
By early May, the family's missing boat was found in 180 feet of water 'with potential human remains onboard.' Three sets of remains were recovered from the vessel from Tuesday, May 27, to Wednesday, May 28.
State troopers said the remains were transported to the State Medical Examiner's Office for identification and autopsies, and that next of kin had been notified.
Christi Wells, who provided a statement to the Anchorage Daily News on behalf of Mary Maynard's parents, said the mom was a traveling nurse while her husband had a lawn care business and stayed home with their kids.
The Troy family enjoyed spending time with friends and family, as well as traveling, Wells stated.
More than $21,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign started to support the family's loved ones following their disappearance.
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'The Maynard's left a huge imprint on many people, from the laughter they brought to us, the love and family-oriented connection they provided,' wrote Tanashea Aviles, who organized the online fundraiser.
She added, 'It is indescribable the void that will be left behind but I know if we come together as a family and a community they would know how much they meant to everyone.'
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