Married Couple Killed, Two Injured After Boat Capsizes Near Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island, S.C.

A boating accident near Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, left a married couple dead and two others injured after their vessel capsized late Friday night, authorities confirmed.

The 23-foot boat overturned around 9:45 p.m. on June 27 in the Skull Creek area. Emergency responders from multiple agencies arrived at the scene following reports of a boating crash. Upon arrival, the vessel was located with four people aboard. Two passengers were found injured and were transported to a local hospital, while the other two were pronounced dead at the scene.

The victims have been identified as 76-year-old James Montgomery and his 73-year-old wife, Patsy Montgomery, both residents of Bluffton. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office is awaiting final autopsy results to determine the official causes of death.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), the lead investigating agency, reported that preliminary findings indicate the vessel struck a day marker along the Intracoastal Waterway. The agency is continuing its investigation to determine contributing factors in the accident. Authorities confirmed that the deceased included the operator of the vessel. At this time, no criminal charges are pending.

During the search and rescue effort, divers located the two deceased individuals as well as two dogs that had been on board. The animals were found within the overturned boat, the SCDNR said in a statement.

Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry expressed his condolences in a public statement, saying, “My heart and prayers are with the families of the deceased and those who are injured. May God's hand provide comfort during these trying times.”

Authorities have not released further information as the investigation remains ongoing.