During Memorial Day weekend in late May 2025, the tranquil waters of Skull Creek near Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, turned tragic. A heartbreaking boat collision claimed the lives of Patty and James Montgomery, a beloved Bluffton couple in their seventies.
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The couple was aboard one of two boats involved in the late-night crash, which also left two other people seriously injured. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, revealing the full scale of the tragedy and leaving the community in shock and mourning.
Challenging Conditions on a Busy Holiday Night
The collision occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Skull Creek, a well-known waterway connecting the Intracoastal Waterway with Port Royal Sound. While beautiful, Skull Creek is notoriously challenging to navigate at night due to narrow channels, swift currents, and reflections from surrounding lights.
On Memorial Day weekend, the area is especially busy with both residents and tourists enjoying boating activities, which likely compounded the navigational challenges.
The Incident: What Happened
Emergency services, including the U.S. Coast Guard, Beaufort County first responders, and local marine patrol officers, arrived quickly after reports of a collision. Tragically, Patty Montgomery, 73, and her husband, James Montgomery, 76, were pronounced dead at the scene despite extensive life-saving efforts.
Two additional boaters sustained serious injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital. Their identities and current conditions have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Investigating the Cause
Authorities have launched a thorough investigation to determine the causes behind the deadly collision. Factors under review include boat speed, operator experience, visibility, use of navigation lights, and potential mechanical failures.
Preliminary reports indicate that the accident occurred in a particularly narrow stretch of Skull Creek, complicating navigation even for experienced boaters. Weather conditions at the time were clear, and there is currently no indication of foul play.
The final report from Beaufort County officials and the South Carolina Highway Patrol is expected to take several weeks, as investigators examine boat data and collect witness statements.
Remembering Patty and James Montgomery
The loss of Patty and James has sent shockwaves through Hilton Head and their home community of Bluffton. The couple was deeply admired for their warmth, generosity, and shared passion for boating.
“They were the kind of people who welcomed everyone,” a neighbor shared. “They truly loved life, and their love for boating was something they shared joyfully with friends and family. Losing them like this is heartbreaking for all of us.”
Community Response and Calls for Safety
In the wake of this tragedy, local authorities and boating organizations have renewed calls for heightened water safety, especially during busy summer months. Reminders include wearing life jackets, using proper navigation lights, adhering to speed limits, and staying vigilant on the water — particularly at night.
Additionally, the community has begun discussing potential infrastructure improvements to reduce risks on Skull Creek, such as better signage, improved lighting, and designated boating lanes.
Honoring Their Legacy
Over the weekend, a candlelight vigil was held in Bluffton to honor Patty and James. Friends, neighbors, and loved ones gathered to share stories of the couple’s kindness and the joy they brought to so many lives.
Their memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew them, serving as a reminder of the importance of safety and the preciousness of life on the water.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
As investigations continue, the focus remains on preventing such tragedies in the future. Increased education, stricter safety measures, and stronger community awareness are key steps to ensure that the legacy of Patty and James Montgomery inspires positive change in boating culture.
Rest in peace, Patty and James. You will be deeply missed, and your memory will continue to inspire all who knew and loved you.
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