HARVEY CEDARS, N.J. — A New Jersey woman trying to board a boat from a raft over the weekend was killed when she was struck by the propeller, police said Monday.
Zeina Mahafzah, 18, of Wayne, New Jersey, was in a raft being pulled by a boat Sunday afternoon in Sunset Park when she tried to get into the vessel, New Jersey State Police said in a statement. An investigation is underway.
Sunset Park is a recreation area in Harvey Cedars on Long Beach Island.
A tragic boating accident at the New Jersey Shore has left a woman dead after she was struck by a boat propeller. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon near a popular beach in Ocean County, where the victim was enjoying a day out on the water with friends and family.
According to witnesses, the woman had been swimming near the boat when the driver accidentally put the engine in reverse, causing the propeller to strike her. Emergency services were called to the scene and the victim was rushed to a nearby hospital, but sadly she succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
Boating accidents are unfortunately not uncommon during the summer months, when many people flock to the water for recreational activities. In this case, it serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of safety precautions while boating.
One of the most important safety measures to prevent accidents like this is for boaters to always be aware of their surroundings and to exercise caution when operating their vessels. It is crucial for drivers to pay attention to swimmers and other boats in the area, and to always maintain a safe distance from them.
Additionally, it is essential for all passengers on board to wear life jackets at all times, as they can greatly increase the chances of survival in the event of an accident. In this case, wearing a life jacket may have helped prevent the woman from sustaining fatal injuries.
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, and it is unclear at this time whether any charges will be filed against the boat driver. However, regardless of the outcome of the investigation, this tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers of boating and the importance of taking safety precautions seriously.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time. May this tragedy serve as a reminder to all boaters to prioritize safety above all else while out on the water.
