Two Dead, Two Injured in Tragic Boating Collision on Hilton Head Island’s Skull Creek
HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. — Authorities are investigating a devastating boating accident that occurred late Friday evening, June 27, 2025, in the Skull Creek area of Hilton Head Island, resulting in two fatalities and two injuries.
The tragic incident unfolded shortly before 9:30 p.m. when emergency dispatchers began receiving frantic calls from witnesses reporting a serious collision between two recreational boats on Skull Creek, a popular waterway known for its scenic views and frequent boating traffic. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), and local emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to find a chaotic and harrowing situation.
According to officials, the crash involved two small powerboats—each carrying multiple passengers—that collided at a high rate of speed under limited visibility conditions. Preliminary investigations suggest that poor lighting, operator inattention, and possible impairment may have contributed to the crash, though authorities have not confirmed any definitive causes.
Two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts by first responders to resuscitate them. The victims have been identified as 34-year-old Brian Halpern of Savannah, Georgia, and 28-year-old Emily Saunders of Hilton Head Island. Both were reportedly on board the same vessel and are believed to have sustained fatal injuries upon impact.
Two others, a 26-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman, were rescued from the water with serious injuries. They were transported by emergency boat to a nearby dock, where ambulances were waiting to rush them to Hilton Head Hospital. Hospital officials say both are in stable condition but continue to receive treatment for traumatic injuries, including broken bones and head trauma.
The remaining passengers involved in the collision sustained minor injuries or were treated for shock at the scene. None of their names have been released publicly at this time.
The U.S. Coast Guard and SCDNR have launched a joint investigation into the incident. As part of their probe, officials are interviewing survivors, examining vessel damage, and reviewing navigational equipment and witness accounts. Toxicology screenings have also been ordered for both operators, a standard procedure in fatal boating accidents.
“This is a heartbreaking and tragic situation that has deeply affected our community,” said SCDNR spokesperson Lt. Karl Weston during a Saturday morning press briefing. “We are working closely with all agencies involved to determine exactly what happened and to ensure accountability if negligence was involved.”
Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry expressed condolences to the victims’ families and pledged support for the ongoing investigation. “Our hearts go out to the families of those lost in this terrible accident,” he said in a statement. “Skull Creek is a beloved part of our island, and we must do everything we can to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.”
Local residents and boaters familiar with the area note that Skull Creek can be particularly hazardous at night due to narrow channels, unpredictable currents, and limited lighting. Some are calling for increased safety measures, such as additional signage, lighting enhancements, stricter speed regulations, and mandatory nighttime navigation training.
A memorial gathering and moment of silence are being planned at the Skull Creek Marina for the victims, both of whom were well-known in their respective communities. Brian Halpern was a commercial contractor and avid boater, while Emily Saunders was a yoga instructor and volunteer at a local animal rescue.
As the community grapples with the sudden loss, officials urge all boaters to exercise extreme caution, especially during nighttime operations. “Always wear a life jacket, never operate under the influence, and be aware of your surroundings,” Lt. Weston advised. “One moment of carelessness can lead to a lifetime of grief.”
Anyone with information or video footage related to the collision is encouraged to contact the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Tip Line at 1-800-922-5431. The investigation is ongoing, and additional updates will be released as new details emerge.