A 17-year-old has been arrested in connection with the murder of a Maine paddleboarder who was reported missing earlier this month. The teenager, whose identity has not been released due to their age, was taken into custody following a police investigation that began after the victim failed to return from a paddleboarding outing.
The victim, identified as 30-year-old David Redmond, was last seen near a popular lake area where he often went paddleboarding. When he didn’t return home, his family reported him missing, prompting an extensive search by local authorities, including dive teams, drones, and K-9 units. After several days of searching, Redmond’s body was found near the shoreline, and authorities immediately launched a homicide investigation due to signs of foul play.
Law enforcement officials announced the arrest of the 17-year-old after gathering what they described as “significant evidence” linking the teen to Redmond’s death. While police have not disclosed a motive, sources say the two may have known each other. The nature of their relationship and what led to the incident remains under investigation.
Authorities stated that surveillance footage, witness accounts, and forensic evidence helped piece together the timeline of events leading to Redmond’s death. An autopsy later confirmed that he died from blunt force trauma and drowning, ruling the case a homicide.
The teen suspect is currently being held at a juvenile detention facility, though prosecutors are considering charging him as an adult given the severity of the crime. Officials emphasized the case is still active, with investigators continuing to collect more details and question individuals who may have had contact with either person in the days leading up to the incident.
Redmond’s family has issued a public statement expressing heartbreak and calling for justice. They described him as a kind and adventurous person who loved nature and spent much of his free time on the water. His sister shared that he was “deeply loved” and had “so much more to give the world.”
Community members held a candlelight vigil in Redmond’s memory near the lake where he was last seen. Friends and neighbors gathered to honor his life and offer support to his grieving family. Many expressed shock and disbelief that such a violent act could happen in their usually quiet town.
Maine State Police continue to ask anyone with information to come forward. They believe additional individuals may have knowledge that could help clarify the events leading up to the murder. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of more arrests but stressed that they believe the primary suspect is already in custody.
The case has captured statewide attention and raised concerns about safety in outdoor recreational areas. Local leaders have vowed to improve security and consider additional patrols during peak seasons to prevent future tragedies.
As legal proceedings move forward, the district attorney’s office is working closely with the victim’s family to ensure their voices are heard and that justice is served. The court is expected to hold an initial hearing to determine whether the suspect will be tried as an adult.
The investigation remains ongoing, with more details likely to emerge in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the community continues to mourn the loss of David Redmond and hopes for accountability and healing.
