HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. — Authorities have identified the two people who lost their lives in a tragic boat crash that occurred over the weekend in the waters near Hilton Head Island.
The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office confirmed on Monday that the victims were Patsy Montgomery, 73, and James Montgomery, 76, a married couple from Bluffton, South Carolina. The couple was pronounced dead at the scene following a collision in the Skull Creek area on Friday night.
The crash, which sent shockwaves through the Lowcountry boating community, also left two other individuals injured. Their names and conditions have not yet been released.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. Details remain limited, but officials say the incident took place after dark in a section of Skull Creek known for both recreational boating and strong tidal currents.
The deaths of Patsy and James Montgomery have left family, friends, and neighbors devastated. Longtime residents of Bluffton, the Montgomerys were known for their warmth, community involvement, and love for the water. A family friend described them as “deeply kind and full of life — the kind of couple that made everyone around them feel welcome and loved.”
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of boating safety and awareness, especially after dark or in crowded waterways. The SCDNR has not yet confirmed whether speed, impairment, or visibility were factors in the crash.
As the investigation continues, the Hilton Head and Bluffton communities are mourning the loss of two cherished members. Plans for memorial services have not yet been announced.
Authorities urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to contact the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
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