Overview
- A recreational motorboat struck a channel marker in Barnegat Bay on Memorial Day evening, throwing two people into the water and killing 28-year-old Gunnar Pearson of Barnegat, N.J.
- Authorities say six people were aboard; one person who was ejected remained in critical condition and four others were treated at area hospitals for minor injuries.
- Emergency crews responded shortly before 6 p.m., witnesses reported a loud impact and heavy damage to the boat, and the vessel was towed the next morning for forensic examination.
- Investigators have not determined a cause and are evaluating visibility reports of fog at the time, plus witness statements, possible operator actions, speed, impairment and mechanical factors.
- Boating accidents rise on holiday weekends because of heavier traffic and short rescue windows, and officials say full findings may take days after the boat and evidence are processed.