News Summary

A boating accident on Skull Creek near Hilton Head Island resulted in two fatalities and two injuries. Emergency services responded quickly, but two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene while the injured were taken to the hospital. The incident is under investigation, raising concerns about boating safety in the area.

Hilton Head Island: Two Dead, Two Injured in Late-Night Boating Accident on Skull Creek

A tragic boating accident occurred on the evening of June 27, 2025, on Skull Creek near Hilton Head Island, resulting in the death of two individuals and injuries to two others. Emergency services responded around 9:45 p.m. following reports of the incident, which involved a 23-foot boat carrying four people and two dogs.

Upon arrival, emergency personnel from multiple agencies, including the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, found that two boat occupants were injured. They were promptly taken to Hilton Head Hospital for medical treatment. Unfortunately, divers later recovered the bodies of the other two occupants and the dogs, who were pronounced dead at the scene.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been made public, as the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office continues to gather information. The circumstances surrounding the crash are under active investigation by authorities, who are working to determine the chain of events leading to this devastating incident.

Response Efforts and Investigation

Emergency services were quickly mobilized after receiving reports about the boating accident. The response involved a coordinated effort from local law enforcement and federal authorities, which underscores the seriousness of the incident. The collaboration aims to conduct a thorough investigation that will shed light on what caused the boat to capsize.

Local officials have expressed their sorrow over the tragedy. Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry conveyed condolences to the victims and their families via social media, highlighting the impact such events have on the close-knit community.

Boating Safety Awareness

This incident raises awareness about boating safety, especially in areas like Skull Creek, which are popular for recreational activities. Authorities hope that this unfortunate incident will encourage boaters to follow safety guidelines, ensuring that such tragedies can be prevented in the future. Educational programs focusing on boating safety regulations and proper equipment may be enhanced as a response to this tragedy.

Background on Skull Creek

Skull Creek is a well-known location for both residents and tourists visiting Hilton Head Island, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities. However, like many waterways, it can also pose risks to those who engage in boating without adhering to necessary safety measures. Local agencies continuously monitor and educate the public to ensure safe enjoyment of the creek.

This incident marks one of several recent boating accidents in the region that have prompted officials to stress the importance of boating safety. With boating season in full swing, awareness campaigns are vital to remind both seasoned boaters and novices about the risks associated with navigating the waters.

As investigators work to uncover the details behind this incident, more updates will be disseminated through local news channels and official statements from the agencies involved. The community remains in mourning for those who lost their lives and continues to support the families affected during this difficult time.

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Additional Resources

• WSAV News
• Island Packet
• Post and Courier
• Wikipedia: Boating Accident
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating

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.