July 1, 2025

Tragic Boating Accident Claims Lives Near Skull Creek

News Summary

A tragic boating accident near Skull Creek has resulted in the deaths of 73-year-old Patsy Montgomery and her 76-year-old husband, James ‘Rick’ Montgomery. The couple, residents of Bluffton, South Carolina, were pronounced dead at the scene alongside their two dogs. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident, raising concerns about emergency response times for boating accidents in the area. The accident has sparked discussions on potential legislative reforms, including a push for Jaden’s Law aimed at improving boating safety protocols.

Hilton Head Island, SC: Two Fatalities in Boating Accident Near Skull Creek

Two individuals, identified as 73-year-old Patsy Montgomery and her 76-year-old husband, James “Rick” Montgomery, lost their lives in a tragic boating accident near Skull Creek on Friday evening, June 27, 2025. The couple, residents of Bluffton, South Carolina, was pronounced dead at the scene, along with two dogs. The cause of death is currently pending autopsy results as reported by the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office.

The incident occurred around 9:45 p.m. EDT, marking a significant event that has raised concerns regarding emergency response times for boating accidents in South Carolina. Two additional individuals were injured during the accident and have been transported to Hilton Head Medical Center for treatment; their identities have not been made public.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office received the initial call regarding the incident at approximately 9:45 p.m. An analysis of flight data indicated that a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter was dispatched to the scene around 10:21 p.m., adding to reports from witnesses who observed lengthy delays in emergency response. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the existing protocols for handling such emergencies.

Investigation Underway

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the boating accident. They aim to uncover the specifics of what transpired leading up to this tragic event.

Previous incidents in South Carolina have prompted calls for reform in emergency response protocols for boating accidents. Notably, in 2020, the death of 19-year-old Jaden Phillips resulted in the introduction of Jaden’s Law (H.3602), which seeks to implement necessary changes to how boating incidents are managed.

Potential Legislative Reforms

Jaden’s Law aims to create guidelines such as requiring GPS coordinates for incidents, ensuring clear signage at boat landings, and mandating breathalyzer testing for boat operators involved in significant accidents. Despite the pressing need for such reforms highlighted by past tragedies, the law has yet to be voted on in the South Carolina House of Representatives. This recent incident involving the Montgomerys may act as a catalyst for moving legislative measures forward.

Hilton Head Mayor Alan Perry expressed condolences through social media, highlighting the profound sorrow felt within the community and offering prayers for the families affected by this unfortunate accident.

Community Impact

The tragic accident underscores ongoing challenges concerning emergency response systems related to boating incidents in South Carolina. Residents and lawmakers alike are calling for improved measures to ensure swift and effective responses when accidents occur on the water.

As investigations continue and discussions about potential legislative reforms intensify, the community reflects on the loss of the Montgomerys, remembering them as owners of Magic Pools and Spas located in Lexington, North Carolina. Their passing serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with boating and the pressing need for better safety protocols.

Authorities urge all boaters to remain vigilant and adhere to safety measures while on the water to prevent future tragedies.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tragic Boating Accident Claims Two Lives in Skull Creek
SCDNR Offers Courtesy Boating Inspections for Fourth of July
Tragic Boating Accident Claims Lives on Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island Reports Fatal Boating Accident
Tragic Boating Accident Claims Two Lives on Skull Creek
Tragic Boat Crash in Skull Creek Claims Two Lives
Tragic Boating Accident in Beaufort County
Tragic Boating Accident in Hilton Head Area
Tragic Boating Accident Claims Lives Near Hilton Head Island
Boating Accident in Hilton Head Island Claims Lives

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

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