In a heartbreaking incident that unfolded on Sunday afternoon, an 18-year-old woman lost her life after being struck by a boat’s propeller while attempting to board the vessel from a raft in Harvey Cedars. The victim, identified as Zeina Mahafzah of Wayne, New Jersey, was engaged in a recreational activity at Sunset Park on Long Beach Island when the accident occurred.
According to preliminary reports from New Jersey State Police and Harvey Cedars Police Department, Mahafzah was in a raft being towed by a boat when she attempted to transition from the raft to the boat. The circumstances of how the tragic accident unfolded remain under investigation, but authorities have confirmed that she was struck by the boat’s propeller during this maneuver.
The Harvey Cedars Police Department and New Jersey State Police have both launched investigations into the incident. As of now, details are still emerging, and the investigation is in its early stages. In a statement, the police departments involved urged the public to keep Mahafzah’s family and the community in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Sunset Park, the location of the accident, is a popular recreational area situated in Harvey Cedars on Long Beach Island. The park, known for its scenic views and family-friendly activities, has become a focal point for the community as they come to terms with the tragic event.
Boating accidents, particularly those involving propellers, are unfortunately not uncommon. Propeller-related injuries are severe and can be fatal due to the high-speed rotation of the blades. The U.S. Coast Guard has highlighted that such incidents often occur during activities where individuals are transitioning between watercraft or engaging in maneuvers around moving boats.
Safety experts recommend several precautions to avoid similar tragedies. These include ensuring that all boaters and passengers are aware of their surroundings, using safety equipment such as life jackets, and avoiding movement near the propeller area when a boat is in motion. Additionally, operators of recreational boats are advised to adhere strictly to safety protocols and remain vigilant, especially when towing rafts or other watercraft.
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As the investigation progresses, authorities will seek to determine if any safety measures were overlooked or if there were any mechanical failures involved in the accident. Meanwhile, the community of Harvey Cedars is grappling with the shock and sorrow of the loss, as they await further updates on the case.
The tragic death of Zeina Mahafzah serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with recreational boating and the importance of vigilance and safety in preventing such accidents.