The Sunshine Murders: Teen Suspect Charged in Maine Paddleboarder’s Death That Shocked Quiet Community
A Peaceful Summer Shattered
The peaceful summer on the serene banks of Crawford Pond, Maine, was upended this July when camp newcomer Sunshine “Sunny” Stewart went paddleboarding – and never returned.
The Investigation Unfolds
Stewart, 48, died from strangulation and blunt force trauma after going paddleboarding alone on the evening of July 2 on Crawford Pond in Union. When she didn’t return hours later, someone reported her missing. Her body was discovered near an island in the middle of the pond after 1 a.m. on July 3.
Shocking Arrest
Both Stewart and the teenage suspect were staying at Mic Mac Campground when the alleged killing occurred. As campground owner Katharine Lunt noted, “It’s not a place where these things happen. It’s not a place where we’re suspect of each other.”
The 17-year-old suspect, who was visiting the campground with his parents, had appeared eager to help in the investigation. He was known for helping fellow campers with their pets and yard work, and enjoyed making wooden crafts and taking his boat out on the water.
Legal Proceedings
The Maine Attorney General’s Office has filed a motion to try Deven Young as an adult for the murder of Sunshine Stewart. State prosecutors have moved forward with this request, though it has not yet been ruled on.
At his first court appearance, Young entered a denial of the allegations. The judge ordered him to remain in custody at a juvenile facility to ensure his appearance at future court dates and protect public safety. His next hearing is scheduled for August 22 in the Rockland District Court.
Community Impact
The case has deeply affected the local community. As Lunt expressed, “I was obsessed with finding out who did this, because it was terrifying for everybody.” Stewart is remembered by her sister Kim Ware as an active woman and boat captain who once sailed to the Caribbean. “Sunny loved the outdoors, hiking, boating, paddleboarding and yoga,” Ware shared.
