HOLLYWOOD BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — The death of a woman found off Hollywood Beach earlier this month is under investigation as a possible boating incident, according to wildlife officials.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced on Tuesday that the body of 30-year-old Kellie Melinda Williams was recovered on June 3 near New Mexico Street after two fishermen spotted her in the surf and called police.
Hollywood police said officers had initially responded around 8 p.m. to reports of a woman who had washed ashore, prompting a multi-agency investigation involving homicide detectives, crime scene investigators and the Broward Medical Examiner’s Office.
Investigators said Williams is believed to have been snorkeling earlier that day near Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park. She is believed to have entered the park at approximately 10:30 a.m. and entered the ocean through Beach Access 1.
FWC Officer George Raynaud said Williams was last seen wearing a light blue shirt and black shorts and had a floating dive flag with her while in the water.
See also: 8-year-old drowns in Boynton Beach, police say no foul play suspected
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Williams, who worked as an American Airlines flight attendant, suffered injuries consistent with a possible boat strike. Investigators believe she may have been struck in the head by a watercraft while snorkeling, though the exact circumstances remain under investigation.
FWC investigators are asking anyone who was in the area between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to come forward if they witnessed an incident involving Williams or observed vessels operating within approximately one mile offshore.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
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The FWC extended its condolences to Williams’ family, loved ones, and colleagues as the investigation continues.