A devastating boating accident off the coast of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, has claimed two lives and left two others hospitalized. The fatal incident occurred just before 10:00 p.m. on Friday, June 27, 2025, in the Skull Creek area, prompting a large-scale emergency response from multiple agencies.
According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, a 23-foot recreational vessel capsized in Skull Creek late Friday evening. Four individuals and two dogs were on board when the boat overturned. Responders from the Sheriff’s Office, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), and the U.S. Coast Guard arrived shortly after 9:45 p.m.
Two of the passengers were found injured and transported to Hilton Head Hospital for medical treatment. Tragically, the other two individuals and both dogs were found deceased at the scene after rescue divers completed their search.
Possible Causes and Contributing Factors
While the official cause of the capsize remains under investigation by SCDNR, boating accidents like this often involve one or more of the following factors:
- Poor visibility or nighttime navigation challenges: The accident occurred after dark, which may have impaired the operator’s ability to detect hazards or navigate safely.
- Overloading or improper balance: The size of the boat and distribution of passengers, gear, or animals can affect stability.
- Sudden weather or wave conditions: Skull Creek can experience swift tides and shifting wind patterns that may contribute to instability.
- Operator error or mechanical failure: A misjudgment in handling the vessel, a sharp turn, or engine problems could have led to the capsize.
Risks Associated with Nighttime Boating
Boating at night significantly increases the risks for even experienced mariners. Reduced visibility, lower water traffic monitoring, and the potential for submerged hazards all contribute to a higher likelihood of serious incidents. In particular, creeks and inlets near Hilton Head Island can pose navigation challenges, even in daylight.
Wearing life jackets, using functional lighting, and filing a float plan are all essential safety precautions that can mitigate risks on the water after dark.
Legal Rights and Next Steps for Victims’ Families
In the wake of a fatal boating accident, surviving victims and the families of those lost may have the right to pursue legal claims for compensation. Depending on the circumstances, potential claims could include:
- Negligence on the part of the boat operator
- Defective vessel design or equipment
- Failure to follow boating safety regulations
If alcohol, excessive speed, or lack of safety gear played a role, these factors could form the basis of a wrongful death or personal injury lawsuit.
Surviving family members may be entitled to damages for:
- Funeral expenses
- Medical bills
- Loss of companionship
- Emotional pain and suffering
Because maritime and boating law can involve both state and federal statutes, consulting with a knowledgeable maritime injury lawyer is essential to determine legal rights and liabilities.
Contact the Maritime Injury Attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we have extensive experience representing individuals and families affected by recreational boating accidents and other maritime tragedies. Whether an accident occurs on open water, in a harbor, or on an inland waterway, our maritime attorneys are prepared to investigate, preserve evidence, and hold responsible parties accountable.
📞 Call us today at 713-804-9306 for a free and confidential consultation.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating or maritime accident, you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. Our team is here to support you through every step of the legal process and help you seek justice.