News Summary
A boating accident near Hilton Head Island resulted in the deaths of two individuals, Patsy and James Montgomery. The collision with a day marker caused the boat to capsize, with two others injured. Investigations are underway to determine the details of the incident, emphasizing the need for better boating safety measures in the local community.
Hilton Head Island, SC – A tragic boating accident resulted in the deaths of two individuals on Friday, June 27, in Skull Creek near Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. The collision occurred shortly before 10 p.m. when a boat struck a day marker in the Intracoastal Waterway, as reported by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
Two of the four people onboard were seriously injured and were taken to Hilton Head Medical Center for treatment. The deceased have been identified as 73-year-old Patsy Montgomery and 76-year-old James Montgomery, residents of nearby Bluffton, South Carolina. Their deaths were confirmed by the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office, which has scheduled autopsies to determine the precise causes of death.
During the incident, the boat capsized after colliding with the marker, prompting a swift response from emergency crews. Multiple rescue teams, including divers, were deployed to assist the two remaining occupants, who managed to survive the ordeal. These individuals were successfully rescued and brought to safety.
Local officials have initiated investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident. As of now, no criminal charges are anticipated. Authorities are focused on gathering additional details regarding the accident, including who was operating the vessel at the time. This tragic event has raised significant concerns among the local boating community, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures on the water.
Mayor Alan Perry of Hilton Head Island expressed condolences to the families affected by this unfortunate incident. He acknowledged the tragedy’s impact on the community and highlighted the importance of ensuring adequate safety precautions while boating.
This accident serves as a critical reminder for boat captains and operators to remain vigilant, particularly during nighttime navigation. It is essential to maintain proper lighting on vessels and to stay aware of one’s surroundings to prevent further incidents. The local authorities hope that this incident will prompt increased awareness and adherence to safety guidelines by all boaters in the region.
The collision incident underscores the inherent risks associated with boating, particularly in areas with significant nautical traffic. Residents and visitors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with safe boating practices, which include understanding navigational markers, proper maintenance of vessels, and the importance of wearing life jackets at all times.
As investigations continue, members of the community are left mourning the loss of Patsy and James Montgomery, who were well-known residents of Bluffton. Their passing has left a profound impact on their family and friends, as well as the broader community. This incident will likely lead to discussions on improving safety regulations and education for boaters in the area.
In summary, the tragic boating accident near Hilton Head Island has resulted in the loss of two lives, leaving the local community in mourning and highlighting the critical need for careful boating practices. Local officials remain committed to investigating the incident thoroughly and reinforcing boating safety among residents and visitors alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Fatal Crash on US 278 in Hilton Head
America’s Best Historical Small Towns Poll Opens
Captain Arrested for Seeking Shelter During Storm
Explore the Hidden Charms of South Carolina’s Small Towns
Tragic Drowning Incident at Hunting Island State Park
Tropical Storm Chantal Approaches South Carolina Coast
Community Events and Opportunities in Beaufort County
Beaufort County Celebrates Independence Day with Festivities
Beaufort County Adjusts Grocery and Office Hours for Fourth of July
Tragic Boating Accident Claims Lives in Hilton Head Island
Additional Resources
- WYFF4 News
- Wikipedia: Boating Safety
- Fox News
- Google Search: Hilton Head boating accidents
- Island Packet
- Google Scholar: Boating Safety Regulations
- WTOC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Accidents
- WJCL News
- Google News: Hilton Head Boat Accident
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.
