News Summary
A tragic boating accident on Skull Creek has resulted in the deaths of Patsy and James Montgomery, a couple from Bluffton. The incident occurred when their vessel reportedly struck a day marker. Two other occupants were injured and transported for medical treatment. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is investigating the accident, with autopsies planned for the deceased couple. The community is grappling with the loss as boating safety concerns arise, particularly regarding nighttime navigation.
Bluffton, South Carolina – A tragic boating accident on Skull Creek on June 27, 2025, claimed the lives of a husband and wife from Bluffton. The victims have been identified as Patsy Montgomery, 73, and her husband James Montgomery, 76. Both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the incident, according to information released by the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office.
The fatal collision occurred around 9:45 p.m. in Skull Creek, which is situated between Pinckney Island and the northwest area of Hilton Head Island. The couple was reportedly aboard a vessel that encountered an accident, and preliminary findings suggest that the boat may have struck a day marker that designates the Intracoastal Waterway.
In addition to the Montgomerys, two other occupants on the boat sustained injuries during the incident and were subsequently transported to Hilton Head Medical Center for medical treatment. Their current condition has not been disclosed.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is leading the ongoing investigation into the crash. Autopsies for the deceased couple are set to be conducted to ascertain the specific causes of death. As it stands, the identity of the boat’s operator at the time of the accident remains unconfirmed, and no criminal charges are under consideration at this moment.
In a search operation, SCDNR divers successfully recovered the bodies of the couple along with their two dogs from the wreckage of the overturned vessel. The recovery operation underscores the ongoing response to this tragic accident.
In reaction to the devastating news, Mayor Alan Perry of Hilton Head Island expressed his sorrow through social media, stating his feelings of loss over the incident. As of Monday morning, details concerning the couple’s obituaries or funeral arrangements have not been publicly revealed.
This unfortunate event has prompted concerns regarding boating safety in the region, particularly during nighttime navigation, which can present additional risks to operators and passengers alike. Investigation findings are expected to highlight critical factors that contributed to the incident.
Serious boating accidents are relatively rare in this scenic area, which is known for its recreational water activities. Local authorities urge boaters to remain vigilant, adhere to navigational markers, and prioritize safety while out on the water.
The Skull Creek incident has shocked the Bluffton community, where the Montgomery couple was well-known and respected. Neighbors and community members mourn the loss of two individuals whose lives were tragically cut short, emphasizing their positive contributions to local life.
As investigations continue, local authorities are expected to release further information in the coming days, shedding more light on the circumstances surrounding the fatal boat crash and what measures can be taken to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Boating Accident
- WYFF4 News
- Google Search: Hilton Head boating accident
- WJCL News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Safety Education
- WTOC News
- Google News: Boating Safety
- WLTX News
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.
