One Killed, Two Seriously Injured in Barnegat Bay Boat Crash

Posted on: July 29, 2026

A fatal boating accident during one of New Jersey’s busiest weekends at Barnegat Bay has left one dead and two seriously injured. According to the New Jersey State Police, the crash occurred late Saturday night on Barnegat Bay near Toms River. 

The accident occurred during FloatShoalla Weekend, one of the largest unofficial summer boating events on the Jersey Shore, attracting thousands to Tices Shoal each year. Boats raft together for a fun-in-the-sun day of swimming and socializing, creating some of the heaviest and most congested recreational boat traffic of the summer.

Police said, in the dark, a 32-foot Boston Whaler struck an Intracoastal Waterway channel marker, injuring four occupants. After the collision, the operator piloted the damaged vessel to a nearby residence on Silver Lagoon Drive for emergency responders to treat those onboard.

One man was transported to a local hospital and later died from his injuries. Two others were treated for serious injuries and one for minor injuries.

Saturday’s crash highlights the dangers of navigating crowded waterways during peak boating season. The tragedy comes less than a week after another fatal Barnegat Bay boating accident that claimed the lives of two children.

An investigation into the crash is ongoing, and no charges have been announced. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, our experienced boating accident lawyers at Ellis Law can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Call today at 732-308-0200 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. With offices in New Jersey and New York, we proudly serve clients throughout both states.