News Summary
A boating accident on Hilton Head Island has claimed the lives of two individuals, prompting an investigation by state officials. The incident occurred in the Skull Creek area when a vessel struck a day marker late Friday. The victims, a couple from Bluffton, were known to frequent the waters. Two others aboard sustained injuries, leading to calls for enhanced safety measures as the holiday weekend approaches.
Hilton Head Island
State officials are investigating a deadly boating accident that occurred on Hilton Head Island over the weekend, resulting in the tragic deaths of two individuals. The accident took place just before 10 p.m. on Friday, June 27, 2025, in the Skull Creek area, prompting an immediate response from local authorities.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) received reports of the boat crash at approximately 9:45 p.m. According to preliminary findings, the vessel involved in the accident struck a day marker in the Intracoastal Waterway. Four individuals were on board the vessel at the time of the incident.
Victims James Montgomery, 76, and Patsy Montgomery, 73, were pronounced dead at the scene. The couple, frequent visitors from Bluffton, South Carolina, were known to enjoy their time on the waters around Hilton Head Island. The cause of death for the Montgomerys is pending autopsy results. The two other passengers aboard the boat sustained injuries and were transported to Hilton Head Hospital for medical treatment. Their current conditions have not yet been disclosed.
The SCDNR is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic crash. As of now, no criminal charges are pending against anyone involved in the incident. Authorities are working diligently to uncover the details that led to the accident and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Community Response
This tragic event has left the boating community in Hilton Head Island devastated. Local boat captains, Michael Perry and Marc Pincus, have expressed their condolences and pointed to the importance of safety precautions, particularly when boating at night. The captains stressed that accidents can happen quickly, and proper measures should always be taken to ensure the safety of all individuals on the water.
In light of the upcoming 4th of July holiday, when increased boating traffic is expected, there is a renewed emphasis on promoting safe boating practices. The demand for safety measures has never been more critical, as the potential for tragic accidents rises with the influx of boaters during the holiday weekend.
Background Context
Hilton Head Island has long been a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities. The scenic Intracoastal Waterway provides residents and visitors with ample opportunities for enjoyment but also comes with inherent risks, especially during night excursions. Past incidents have shown that navigating during the dark poses significant dangers, making it crucial for boaters to adhere to established safety protocols.
The SCDNR plays a pivotal role in boating safety regulations and accident investigations throughout South Carolina. Their ongoing efforts involve public education on the importance of awareness and caution while on the water, especially during busy times of the year. As investigations continue, the hope is that this tragedy will serve as a reminder for all recreational boaters to prioritize safety and vigilance.
As the community mourns the loss of the Montgomerys, there is widespread support for initiatives that promote safe boating habits and encourage open discussion about the risks involved in nighttime navigation. With the summer season in full swing, keeping safety at the forefront remains a shared responsibility among all who enjoy South Carolina’s beautiful waterways.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Fatal Boating Incident Claims Two Lives in Hilton Head
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
Additional Resources
- WSAV News
- Wikipedia: Boating Safety
- Island Packet
- Google Search: Boating Safety
- WYFF News
- Google Scholar: Boating Accidents
- WTOC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating
- WJCL News
- 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.
