May 19, 2025

Investigation Launched After Woman Found Unresponsive at Hilton Head Island

News Summary

A 50-year-old woman was found unresponsive in the surf on Hilton Head Island, prompting an investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities, who confirmed her deceased at the scene, stated that she was wearing a wetsuit with a boogie board attached. While preliminary reports suggest the death is not suspicious, an autopsy is scheduled to determine the cause. This tragic incident raises important concerns regarding water safety amidst recent fatalities in the area.

Hilton Head Island

A 50-year-old woman was discovered unresponsive in the surf on Hilton Head Island early Sunday morning, prompting an investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies received reports of an unresponsive individual in the water at Collier Beach Road shortly before 1 a.m. Authorities pronounced her dead at the scene.

When responders arrived, they found the woman wearing a wetsuit, with a boogie board still attached to her ankle. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has not released her identity as they await notification of her next of kin, and an autopsy is scheduled to determine the cause of death.

According to preliminary reports from the Sheriff’s Office, the death “does not appear to be suspicious at this time.” However, officials have launched an ongoing investigation to uncover further details surrounding the incident. They are urging anyone with information to contact the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office at 843-524-2777.

Recent Context

This incident occurs in the wake of other recent water-related fatalities in South Carolina. Just days earlier, two individuals were found unconscious in separate incidents in the Charleston area, raising concerns about water safety.

Beach safety has been a concern in many coastal areas, as conditions can change rapidly, and awareness of potential hazards is crucial for individuals participating in beach activities. Authorities stress the importance of taking precautions and being vigilant while enjoying water sports to prevent similar tragedies.

As this investigation unfolds, the community remains on alert for any updates regarding the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death. The Sheriff’s Office is committed to thoroughly examining the details related to this event to ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike.

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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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