Authorities are investigating a tragic boating accident that claimed the life of a Conway man following a collision on the Sampit River in Georgetown County, South Carolina, on Saturday morning. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) confirmed that two boats collided near the Campbell Boat Landing area in Maryville, prompting a large emergency response and an active investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly crash.
According to preliminary information released by officials, emergency crews and SCDNR officers were dispatched to the scene shortly after reports of the collision were received. Responders arrived quickly and began assessing the situation while assisting those involved in the incident. Despite emergency efforts, one individual suffered fatal injuries as a result of the crash.
The Georgetown County Coroner’s Office later identified the victim as Wendell “Jay” Holbert III, 49, of Conway. Authorities confirmed that Holbert died from injuries sustained during the boating collision. News of his death has saddened members of the Conway and Georgetown County communities as family, friends, and loved ones begin mourning the sudden loss.
At this time, investigators have not publicly released extensive details about what caused the collision. Officials have not confirmed how the boats came into contact, how many individuals were onboard the vessels, or whether factors such as speed, impairment, weather conditions, or navigational issues may have contributed to the crash. Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that additional findings will be released once more information becomes available.
No other serious injuries have been reported in connection with the incident. Investigators are continuing to examine evidence from the scene and review witness statements as they work to determine the full sequence of events that led to the fatal collision on the Sampit River.