News Summary
A tragic boating accident near Hilton Head Island resulted in the deaths of two individuals, Patsy and James Montgomery, and injuries to two others. The incident occurred when a vessel collided with an unlit day marker in Skull Creek. Rescue operations involved multiple agencies, and the investigation is ongoing. The Montgomerys were community members known for their involvement in local church activities. This event serves as a reminder of the dangers of nighttime boating.
Hilton Head Island
A tragic boating accident off Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to two others on June 27, 2025. The incident occurred around 9:45 p.m. when a mid-sized vessel collided with an unlit day marker in Skull Creek.
The victims have been identified as Patsy Montgomery, 73, and James Montgomery, 76, both residents of Sun City. They reportedly drowned as a result of the collision, and their bodies were recovered after a lengthy, multi-hour search by rescue crews in the area.
Two other people found aboard the capsized boat were taken to a nearby marina before being transported to Hilton Head Medical Center for medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been disclosed. Additionally, two dogs that were onboard the vessel did not survive the accident.
Rescue Efforts
The search operation involved multiple water units and a helicopter from the U.S. Coast Guard, which patrolled a two-mile stretch of Skull Creek. The search area was later expanded to include sections of the Chechessee River and the northwest shores of Hilton Head.
Investigation Details
Preliminary investigations suggest that the 30-foot sport fishing boat struck an unlit day marker, a navigational aid typically used during the day in the Intracoastal Waterway. The vessel has since been taken into possession by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources for further examination.
Authorities have not yet revealed the identity of the boat’s driver, who is also deceased. As of now, no criminal charges have been filed related to the boating incident.
Community Impact
The Montgomerys were known as active members of Beaufort’s Community Bible Church. A funeral service for the couple has been scheduled for July 11 at 10:30 a.m. at the church, providing an opportunity for their community to pay their respects.
Context
This tragic event marks one of the first boating-related fatalities in Beaufort County since the incident in 2019 that resulted in the death of 19-year-old Mallory Beach. The local community is reminded of the potential dangers associated with boating, particularly during nighttime hours.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this accident to ensure the safety of recreational boating in the area. As they gather more information, further updates are expected to be released to the public.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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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
Additional Resources
- WYFF4
- Wikipedia: Boating Accidents
- Island Packet
- Google Search: Hilton Head boating accident
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating
- WSAV
- Google News: Hilton Head boating accident
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.
