News Summary
Carlson “B.J.” Johnson III, a nurse practitioner in the Outer Banks, was found dead in the Atlantic Ocean after being reported overdue on a fishing trip. Johnson, who was well-respected in the community, left Oregon Inlet with his dog but did not return as expected. Extensive search efforts led to the recovery of his body, while the search for his missing dog and boat continues. The community is mourning the loss of a dedicated health care professional.
Kill Devil Hills, NC – The body of a local health care provider, Carlson “B.J.” Johnson III, was recovered from the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday, May 15, 2025, after he was reported overdue during a fishing trip. Johnson, 49, had left Oregon Inlet with his dog on an 18-foot gray Maycraft boat at around 10-11 a.m. the previous day.
Authorities received a report that Johnson was missing at 9:54 p.m. on May 14, prompting search efforts. His body was discovered the next day, approximately two miles north of Oregon Inlet and two-and-a-half miles offshore, by a local fisherman who notified the Coast Guard. The North Carolina Marine Patrol subsequently recovered the body, which has been transferred to the state’s Medical Examiner for identification and examination.
As of midday on Friday, May 16, 2025, Johnson’s dog remains missing. Search efforts for Johnson’s vessel are underway, led by Sgt. Anna E. Barbosa of the North Carolina Wildlife Commission. While reports of a found boat have surfaced, the description does not match that of Johnson’s Maycraft. Community members are encouraged to notify authorities with any sightings of the gray 18-foot boat by contacting Sgt. Barbosa at 252-947-1510.
Johnson was a respected nurse practitioner with Outer Banks Health for over a decade. The organization expressed profound sadness over his passing, highlighting his unwavering commitment to patient care and the significant impact he had on countless lives in the region. Outer Banks Health extended condolences to Johnson’s family, friends, colleagues, and the many patients who had benefited from his care.
Details of the Incident
On May 14, 2025, Johnson embarked on a fishing trip with his canine companion, departing from the Oregon Inlet. His planned return was anticipated by the evening, but when he did not return by the reported time, concern escalated. The Coast Guard initiated a search operation once he was reported missing, focusing on both maritime and coastal areas.
The discovery of Johnson’s body has shocked the local community, where he was well-known and admired for his dedication to health care. Johnson had played a significant role in the lives of many individuals in the Outer Banks, and his loss is felt deeply among those who knew him.
Ongoing Search for Missing Dog and Vessel
The search for Johnson’s dog continues, with hopes that it may still be located. The authorities are making rigorous efforts to find the missing dog, appealing to community members for assistance. Johnson’s boat also remains unaccounted for, and the wildlife commission is focusing on securing any information that might lead to its discovery.
The local community, while mourning the loss of a beloved figure, is rallying together to support the search efforts. Reports of potential sightings of Johnson’s boat or his dog are critical for aiding the ongoing investigation and search operations.
Impact on the Community
The death of Carlson “B.J.” Johnson III shines a spotlight on the risks associated with fishing and boating activities. With the growing number of fishing enthusiasts, the local authorities emphasize the importance of safety measures while on the water. This incident serves as a reminder for all boaters to exercise caution and maintain communication regarding their whereabouts during outings.
The community remains hopeful for positive developments as search efforts continue for Johnson’s missing dog and boat, while they collectively grieve the loss of a well-loved member.
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Additional Resources
- The Coastland Times: Body of Kill Devil Hills Man Found in Atlantic Ocean
- The Coastland Times: Body of Outer Banks Health Care Provider Found in Ocean
- WAVY: Wild Fish Tale – Kitty Hawk Man Takes on 140-Pound Tuna
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Safety
- The Travel: Coolest Towns in the Outer Banks for a Summer Vacation
- Google Search: Boating Safety Guidelines
