News Summary
Two Georgia residents lost their lives in separate drowning incidents at local beaches in Beaufort County. Authorities are urging beachgoers to prioritize water safety as the busy Independence Day weekend approaches. The tragic events unfolded at Hilton Head’s Coligny Beach and Hunting Island State Park, with both fatalities prompting a reminder for caution amid increased beach visitors during the holiday.
Beaufort County, South Carolina – Two Georgia residents drowned this week in separate incidents at local beaches, prompting authorities to emphasize the importance of water safety as the busy Independence Day weekend approaches. The two fatalities occurred at Hilton Head’s Coligny Beach and Hunting Island State Park.
Details of the Drownings
The first incident involved 69-year-old William King, who was reported to have drowned on June 30 at approximately 7:07 PM. King was located near 4 N Forest Beach Drive at Coligny Beach. Witnesses in the area came to his aid, bringing him to shore where a lifeguard attempted lifesaving measures. Despite the quick response, King was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
The second victim, a 65-year-old man whose identity has yet to be disclosed, drowned on July 1 at Hunting Island State Park. A passerby who was fishing noticed the man floating in the water and swam out to retrieve him. After bringing him back to shore, the bystander initiated CPR; however, efforts to revive the victim were unsuccessful, and he also died at the scene.
Investigation and Notifications
The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office is actively working to inform the families of both victims. Details surrounding the second victim, including his name, will be released only after all notifications have been made. Meanwhile, both drowning incidents are under investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office to determine the circumstances surrounding these tragedies.
Safety Reminders for Beachgoers
In light of these incidents, beach safety tips include:
- Always pay attention to beach flags and signs placed at lifeguard stands; the flag colors indicate current risks and potential dangers.
- Be cautious of swimming in unfamiliar waters, where conditions may differ from those at home.
- Never swim alone and ensure children are supervised at all times.
- Avoid alcohol consumption when swimming or engaging in water activities.
- Know your limits; if you are not a strong swimmer, opt for shallow areas or stay where lifeguards are present.
Conclusion
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Two Georgia Men Drown in Beaufort County During Independence Day Week
Tragic Drownings at Beaufort County Beaches Raise Safety Concerns
Drowning Incidents on Hilton Head Island Raise Beach Safety Concerns
Hilton Head Island Suffers Drownings and Weather Alerts This Fourth of July Weekend
Tragic Drownings Highlight Water Safety on Hilton Head Island
Tragic Drownings Prompt Water Safety Urgency in SC
Additional Resources
- Bluffton Today: Two drown in two separate days in Beaufort County
- WYFF4: South Carolina beach drowning deaths
- WRDW: Helene takes nearly 200 lives between Georgia, Carolinas
- New York Times: Sapelo Island dock collapse
- Island Packet: Local crime news
- Wikipedia: Water Safety
- Google Search: Water Safety Guidelines
- Google Scholar: Beach Drowning Incidents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Safety
- Google News: Beach Safety Reminders
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
