Florida authorities are investigating the death of a female scuba diver following a boat-strike in the Lower Keys on Friday, 8 May.
Jocelyn Brown, 27, had been diving off Little Palm Island near Big Pine Key at around 11am when the vessel hit her, according to statements attributed to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
The boat’s occupants had recovered Brown from the water and brought her ashore, but she was later pronounced dead from her injuries. A FWC representative stated that a diver-down flag had been on display at the time of the collision.
Little Palm Island (Dan Gray)
Florida law stipulates that boat-drivers must make a “reasonable effort” to stay at least 90m clear of divers’ flags or SMBs in open water (30m in inland waters). If forced any closer they should restrict speed to the minimum required to maintain headway.
The FWC is leading an investigation into the fatality in co-operation with Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. There has been no indication as to whether charges will be brought. Friends of Brown in the Key West community were setting up an appeal to cover her funeral expenses and help provide for her young son.
The incident occurred the day after a 64-year-old male diver had died from injuries incurred when he was struck in the leg by the propeller of the boat from which he had been spearfishing.
He had been diving north-west of Bimini in the Bahamas and the boat was taking him to Miami, Florida for treatment when he died.