Weymouth Man Goes Missing While Snorkeling In The Cayman Islands

BOSTON (CBS) - A well-known comic artist from Weymouth is now missing in the Cayman Islands while snorkeling with his wife. Norman Lee, 47, who works for both Marvel and DC Comics, was on vacation and swimming about 250 yards off shore on Thursday when the couple became separated.

Family members say his wife thought he had returned to shore when she could no longer see him. Rick Connolly with Royal Cayman Islands Police says the current is particularly strong in the area. "There is a current out there which is taking us quite a way out to sea," said Connolly.

Local reporter Joe Avery with Grand Cayman 27 says he was last seen at the channel markers that separate the outer waters from the inner waters. "The inner waters are quite calm because the reef adds protection," said Avery. "It isn't uncommon for snorkelers to encounter trouble in the water."

With an extensive diving community, Connolly says volunteer divers have been helping the effort and they have covered a large area. They continue to call it a rescue operation but the concern grows with the hours.

"It's so important for the family to have hope for closure in a situation like this," said Connolly.