ISLES OF SHOALS, N.H. — August 4, 2025 — A tragic and somber discovery has prompted a full-scale investigation along the New Hampshire coast after the body of David Paul Stover Shader, a 35-year-old Boston man, was recovered from the Atlantic Ocean over the weekend.
The body was found on Saturday morning, August 2, by a group of recreational boaters near the Isles of Shoals — a small, remote cluster of islands located approximately six miles off the coast of New Hampshire and Maine. The discovery was immediately reported to the U.S. Coast Guard, which dispatched a recovery team to the scene.
Identity Confirmed
According to a statement released by the New Hampshire Marine Patrol and confirmed by the Rockingham County Medical Examiner’s Office, the deceased has been identified as David Paul Stover Shader. Authorities say he was a Boston resident and had reportedly been visiting the New Hampshire Seacoast area in the days leading up to his death.
Shader’s body was recovered near Star Island, one of the Isles of Shoals, a historic and scenic location popular with tourists and mariners. The area is known for its rocky shores, unpredictable currents, and deep coastal waters.
Circumstances Remain Unclear
Officials have not yet determined the cause of Shader’s death and are awaiting results from a full autopsy. While there were no immediate signs of foul play, the case is being handled as an open and active investigation by the New Hampshire State Police Major Crime Unit, in collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard and the New Hampshire Marine Patrol.
“This is a tragic incident, and we’re working to piece together exactly what happened in the hours leading up to Mr. Shader’s death,” said a spokesperson for the Marine Patrol. “We are currently interviewing witnesses and reviewing available surveillance footage and GPS data from vessels in the area.”
Last Known Movements
Authorities are seeking information from anyone who may have seen or interacted with Shader in the days leading up to August 2. According to preliminary reports, he was last seen in the Portsmouth area, and it’s unclear whether he was alone or with companions when he made his way offshore. Investigators are exploring multiple possibilities — including an accidental fall from a vessel, a medical emergency, or a potential boating mishap.
Family and Community React
Shader’s family has been notified and is cooperating with investigators. In a brief statement, they described David as “a vibrant and deeply loved person” who enjoyed the ocean, nature, and photography. Friends have taken to social media to express their grief and disbelief, sharing photos and heartfelt memories of the man they called “Dave.”
“He was a free spirit with a huge heart. I can’t believe he’s gone,” one friend wrote. “We just want answers and peace.”
History of Marine Tragedies in the Area
The Isles of Shoals, while breathtakingly beautiful, have a history of tragic incidents involving drowning, maritime accidents, and mysterious disappearances. Due to their distance from the mainland and the often-challenging weather and water conditions, they are considered a hazardous area for inexperienced mariners or those not properly prepared.
Authorities are again reminding the public to exercise extreme caution when boating or exploring coastal waters, and to always file float plans, wear life jackets, and check marine forecasts before venturing offshore.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into Shader’s death remains ongoing. Officials are urging anyone with information — especially those who may have seen Shader in the Portsmouth, Rye, or Isles of Shoals area in the days prior — to contact the New Hampshire State Police at (603) 227-2112 or the NH Marine Patrol at (603) 293-2037.
As the autopsy results are pending, officials say no further comment will be made until more concrete details are available.
For continuing updates on this case and other regional news, visit The Chronicle.