Husband released but still suspect in Lynette Hooker disappearance in Bahamas

In an interview, Hooker denied any involvement in her disappearance.

(NBC)- A man at the center of a growing international search is speaking out after being released from custody in the Bahamas.

Brian Hooker was freed by authorities and is not facing charges, but investigators say he remains a suspect in the disappearance of his wife, Lynette Hooker, who vanished more than a week ago.

In an interview, Hooker denied any involvement in her disappearance.

“I’ve never harmed Lynette, and I never would harm Lynette, and I want to find Lynette,” he said.

Authorities have not publicly detailed why Hooker remains a suspect, but he acknowledged ongoing scrutiny.

“I think some of it is probably the media attention, which is understandable,” he said, adding that he hopes continued coverage will help bring more resources to the search.

Hooker claims his wife fell from their dinghy in what he described as “unpredictable seas,” though he declined to provide further details, citing legal advice.

“I don’t want to take a chance that anything could interfere with the search,” he said.

When asked about reports of a volatile relationship, Hooker pushed back, emphasizing their long history together.

“Lynette is my life… we’ve been together almost half my life,” he said.

Despite his release, the investigation remains active as authorities continue searching for Lynette Hooker and working to determine what led to her disappearance.

Hooker says he plans to remain involved in the search efforts.

“She wouldn’t stop, and I’m not going to stop,” he said.