Christopher Butler, 45, of Crawfordville, Florida, disappeared on August 26, 2021, during a scalloping trip near the St. Marks Lighthouse. A storm caused the boat to drift; Butler’s friend reached shore but Butler became separated from the vessel and did not return.

A multi-agency search followed, involving the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Fish and Wildlife, and the U.S. Coast Guard, with aerial and ground teams and help from friends and local boaters. The search lasted several days and was called off in early September 2021 without locating Butler. The missing person investigation remains active.

Anyone who was on the water near St. Marks Lighthouse on August 26, 2021, or who has information about Butler’s disappearance is asked to contact the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office.