News Summary
A tragic boat accident on Skull Creek has resulted in the deaths of two residents from Bluffton, identified as Patsy and James Montgomery. The incident occurred late at night, leaving two others injured and requiring medical treatment. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities highlighting the dangers of nighttime boating and emphasizing safety protocols. The community mourns the loss of the Montgomerys while awaiting further details from the investigation led by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
Bluffton, SC – A devastating boat crash on Skull Creek claimed the lives of two residents from Bluffton, identified as Patsy Montgomery, aged 73, and James Montgomery, aged 76. The incident occurred on June 27, 2025, at approximately 9:45 p.m., and both victims were pronounced dead at the scene, as confirmed by the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office.
The tragic accident took place in Skull Creek, which runs between Pinckney Island and northwest Hilton Head Island. Two other occupants of the boat sustained injuries and were transported to Hilton Head Medical Center for treatment. The conditions of the injured individuals have not been disclosed.
The exact details surrounding the crash are still unclear, and investigations are ongoing. Preliminary findings suggest that the vessel struck a day marker along the Intracoastal Waterway, but further examination is needed to determine the specific causes of the accident. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Coast Guard.
The coroner’s office has announced that autopsies for the deceased couple are scheduled to determine the official causes of death. Meanwhile, authorities have yet to confirm who was operating the boat at the time of the accident. As of Monday morning, no criminal charges are pending regarding the incident.
Emergency personnel were alerted to the crash around 9:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered four individuals on board the vessel. Tragically, two of them were confirmed dead shortly after. Mayor Alan Perry of Hilton Head Island expressed his condolences through social media, extending thoughts and prayers to the families affected by this unfortunate event.
This incident highlights the potential dangers of boating activities, especially during nighttime operations. Local authorities often stress the importance of safety measures, including the use of navigation aids and proper lighting equipment. In the aftermath of this tragedy, community members are reminded to remain vigilant and prioritize safety while enjoying water-related activities.
As the investigation continues, the families of the Montgomerys are likely in a state of mourning. Funeral arrangements and obituaries for the couple have not yet been announced, leaving a community in shock over the loss of two respected members.
Such incidents remind us of the unpredictable nature of water bodies and the critical need for safety protocols. The SCDNR aims to offer clarity on the circumstances of the crash in the forthcoming investigation, ensuring that lessons can be learned to help prevent future tragedies.
Stay updated as further information becomes available regarding this tragic event, including potential legal implications and safety recommendations. The community hopes for a thorough investigation while offering support to the families of the deceased and those injured in this unfortunate boating accident.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Bluffton Today
- Wikipedia: Boating Safety
- Island Packet
- Google Search: Boat safety regulations
- WJCL
- Google Scholar: Boating accidents
- WYFF4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating accidents
- FitsNews
- Google News: Hilton Head boat crash
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.
