On September 30th at approximately 1806 SC DNR responded to an accident involving two personal watercrafts (PWCs) in the Calibogue Sound near Hilton Head Island SC, in Beaufort County. Upon arrival of SC DNR Officers, Hilton Head Fire Rescue and Beaufort County Sheriff Department was speaking with the owner of the rental company on the dock with one of the PWC’s involved in the accident Unit 2. 

Operator was already transported to HHI hospital prior to DNR’s arrival. SC DNR took pictures of Unit 2 then proceeded to Low Country Water sports were other PWC and party involved as located. SC DNR spoke with the operator (Unit 1) that struck Unit 2. 

Operator was identified. Operator1 stated that was riding next to his cousin where he realized he was too close to her and turned away from her when he struck the other jet ski. After gathering statements from Operator1, his cousin, and the employee of Low Country Water Sports, DNR officers proceeded to HHI Hospital. 

Upon arrival, the operator Identified by his son and drivers license was in getting imaging done.  Victim returned to his room but was moaning in pain and stated he was giving multiple medications for pain management. 

SC DNR officers obtained witness statements from Operator2’s son that was riding next to him before and after the collision.  SC DNR officer made contact with Operator2 the following day and was informed he been moved to Intensive Care unit in Savannah Memorial Hospital due to four broken ribs, lacerated liver and punctured lung. 

SC DNR arrived at Savannah Memorial and spoke to Operator2 that stated he was sitting at idle speed moving West (on Unit 2) when the other jet ski (Unit 1) was coming south when he nearly missed the back of his son’s jet ski and struck him on his right side. 

Operator2 stated that the front of the other jet ski (Unit 1) struck him on the right side of his ribs and threw him into the water. Operator2 stated that Fire and EMS were called and he has taken to the closest dock for medical treatment.
Calibogue Sound