Lynn Sherwood Deibert was last seen off the coast of Lewes, Delaware, on February 4, 2007, after a tragic maritime accident near the entrance to Delaware Bay. He was a federal ship pilot associated with the Chesapeake Federal Pilots Association and had more than 30 years of sailing experience. Online missing-person records identify him as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes; distinguishing features included scars on his abdomen, ankle area, and above his right eyebrow.
Late that night, Deibert was transferring from the pilot boat Big Stone 5 to the 645-foot freight vessel Energy Enterprise, which was bound for Baltimore. During the boarding attempt, he climbed partway up the ship’s ladder, paused briefly, and then fell into the water. The fall was witnessed by crew members. Reports say he landed on his back, did not strike the ship during the fall, and disappeared in the cold, rough water despite immediate efforts to help him.
The conditions were dangerous and unforgiving. The water temperature was reported at about 39 degrees Fahrenheit, with winds around 20 to 25 knots and seas reported around six feet. Witnesses reportedly threw multiple life rings into the water, and Deibert was said to have been wearing a flotation device when he entered the bay. The accident occurred roughly two miles off Cape Henlopen, near the mouth of Delaware Bay.
The U.S. Coast Guard launched an extensive search involving helicopter crews, rescue boats, a cutter, and aircraft support. Crews searched for more than 14 hours and conducted 13 search sorties before suspending the operation. The Big Stone 5 was taken to Lewes for examination, while the Energy Enterprise continued toward Baltimore, where investigators planned to inspect the vessel and interview crew members.
Deibert’s body was never recovered. Because of the circumstances of the witnessed fall, the severe cold-water conditions, and the unsuccessful search, he has long been presumed lost at sea, and online case summaries state that he was later declared legally dead. His case remains a solemn reminder of the hazards faced by maritime pilots, whose work often requires them to transfer between vessels in darkness, rough seas, and extreme weather.Last Seen: Feb 4, 2007
