Authorities are investigating the tragic death of Stephen Marriott, a 44-year-old Willis, Texas, resident who went missing while fishing on Lake Conroe. The Montgomery County Dispatch Center received a 911 call on Dec. 7, 2024, at approximately 9:16 p.m., reporting that Mr. Marriott had not returned from his fishing trip near FM 1375 and the Cagle Boat Ramp.
Law enforcement and fire department officials responded to the area and located Mr. Marriott’s vehicle and boat trailer in Walker County, but neither Mr. Marriott nor his boat was initially found.
Later that evening, at approximately 11:10 p.m., authorities discovered his boat in gear and unoccupied near a small island close to FM 1375. Inside the boat were Mr. Marriott’s life vest and cellphone. Search efforts continued throughout Saturday night and all day Sunday.
On Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, at approximately 2:30 p.m., Mr. Marriott’s body was found roughly 100 yards from where his boat had been located. Walker County Justice of the Peace Judge Cole has ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of the incident.
Constable Cash extended his heartfelt condolences to Mr. Marriott’s family and friends, saying, “Regardless if you are an avid boater, an experienced swimmer, or on a watercraft for the first time, properly fitting life jackets save lives.” He also thanked the Walker County Sheriff’s Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and the North Montgomery Fire Department for their dedication and hard work in bringing closure to the family during this tragedy.
The investigation is ongoing, and any additional information will be released when available.