A heartbreaking boating accident near Bayville, New Jersey, has claimed the lives of two young children after a vessel struck a channel marker in the Intracoastal Waterway overnight, authorities confirmed.
According to the New Jersey State Police, the crash occurred near Berkeley Township, where a boat carrying family members collided with a navigation marker. The victims, identified only as children ages 7 and 9, were thrown into the water during the impact. Police said the children were not wearing life jackets at the time of the crash. Despite rescue efforts, both children died from their injuries.
Emergency responders, including the State Police Marine Services Bureau and local rescue agencies, responded quickly to the scene. The area was secured while investigators examined the wreckage and gathered evidence.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the children, pending notification of their family. The cause of the collision remains under investigation, and officials have not determined whether speed, visibility, or other factors contributed to the crash.
The tragedy has renewed calls from boating safety officials for passengers, especially children, to wear properly fitted life jackets at all times while on the water. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact investigators as the inquiry continues.
