Wicked Tuna Star Charlie Griffin Dies in Tragic Boating Accident

Charlie Griffin, a beloved former cast member of Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks, has died in a tragic boating accident off the coast of North Carolina. He was accompanied by his dog, Leila, who also perished. Griffin was reported missing Sunday evening along with a companion after departing Virginia Beach for Wanchese, North Carolina, where their boat was scheduled for repairs.

The U.S. Coast Guard launched a search after the men failed to arrive by 11 p.m. On Monday, authorities located the empty vessel and found Griffin and Leila deceased onboard. As of Monday night, the search for the second individual continues.

Griffin’s death was confirmed in a heartbreaking Facebook post on his Reels of Fortune page, which read: “It is with the deepest sadness that we report that Charlie Griffin and his beloved dog, Leila, have died in a boating accident today. Please keep family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.”

Griffin appeared on Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks from Seasons 2 to 5. The National Geographic series follows commercial tuna fishermen who face the unpredictable challenges of the sea.

Griffin will be remembered for his passion for fishing, his deep love for his dog, and his spirited presence both on and off screen.