Officials are advising residents to stay composed after a paddleboarder’s murder in a tranquil Maine village stirred fears due to rumors about a possible serial killer in the area.

The body of 48-year-old Sunshine “Sunny” Stewart was found near Crawford Pond on July 3, merely six hours after she set out alone on her paddleboarding journey, as reported by the Maine State Police (MSP) press release. 

“Captain Sunny was an amazing person” who “would give you the shirt off her back,” Kim Ware, Stewart’s sister, told WMTW 8. 

A map showing the locations where bodies in the New England area have been found. (Fox News)

“We acknowledge the community’s worries and urge that inhabitants stay alert, be mindful of their environment, and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement,” MSP stated.

MSP did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. 

As authorities search for answers, Stewart’s loved ones are left grieving the loss of a marine biologist, lobsterman and boat captain who previously sailed to the Caribbean in a hurricane, her sister told the local outlet. 

“To know Sunny is an amazing blessing,” Ware told WMTW 8. My sister and my best friend,” adding, “Truly an amazing woman. Now we have to rally and give her justice!”