News Summary
A tragic boating accident in Hilton Head has resulted in the deaths of Patsy and James Montgomery. The couple, both from Bluffton, SC, were found in an overturned vessel on Skull Creek. The incident happened late at night, leaving two others injured and requiring rescue. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is investigating the cause of the accident, focusing on the circumstances leading to the capsizing.
Hilton Head, South Carolina – Fatal Boating Incident Claims Two Lives
The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has identified a couple killed in a fatal boating accident that took place on June 28, 2023, in Hilton Head. Patsy Montgomery, 73, and her husband James Montgomery, 76, both from Bluffton, South Carolina, were pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the incident, which occurred around 9:45 p.m.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) reported receiving distress calls about a capsized vessel on Skull Creek, situated between Pinckney Island and northwest Hilton Head. The boat was carrying four people and two dogs when it overturned. Two individuals were rescued and taken to Hilton Head Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained during the accident.
As emergency responders worked to account for all passengers, the other two individuals, along with the two dogs, were initially unaccounted for. Divers were dispatched to search the area and recover the bodies of the Montgomerys and the dogs, which were found within the overturned vessel. The SCDNR is currently leading the investigation into the accident, focusing on determining who was driving the boat at the time it capsized.
Cause of Death and Investigation
The coroner disclosed that autopsy reports will be utilized to ascertain the causes of death for both Patsy and James Montgomery. These reports are scheduled to be completed the following Monday. As of now, no further details regarding the specifics of the accident have been released, and the investigation is ongoing.
Community Response
In the wake of this tragic event, community leaders have expressed their condolences. Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry highlighted the impact of the boat accident, expressing feelings of grief and a desire for comfort for those affected during this challenging time.
Background Context
Boating accidents, while not uncommon, can result in severe consequences, often leading to loss of life and serious injuries. Proper safety measures are essential to prevent such incidents. Recent years have seen an increase in recreational boating activities along the coasts, particularly in areas popular for fishing and leisure activities. Awareness around boating safety has become an important conversation among local authorities and communities, especially following tragic events like this one.
Funeral arrangements and obituaries for the Montgomerys have not yet been disclosed and are expected to be made public in the following days. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with boating and underscores the importance of adhering to safety regulations while on the water.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Boat Crash Claims Lives of Bluffton Couple
Tragic Boating Accident Claims Lives in Skull Creek
Tragic Boating Accident Claims Lives of Bluffton Couple
Tragic Boat Crash Claims Two Lives on Hilton Head Island
Tragic Boating Accident in Hilton Head Island Claims Lives
Fatal Boating Accident on Hilton Head Island
Beaufort County Boating Accident Claims Two Lives
Tragic Boating Accident Claims Lives in Beaufort County
Boating Accident Claims Lives Near Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island Thundered by Tragic Boating Accident
Additional Resources
- WYFF4 News
- Wikipedia: Boating Accident
- WSAV News
- Google Search: Hilton Head boating accident
- Island Packet
- Google Scholar: Boating Accidents South Carolina
- WTOC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Safety
- ABC News 4
- Google News: Boating Safety Accidents
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.
