A 27-year-old woman from Key West has died after being struck by a boat while scuba diving in the Florida Keys, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Jocelyn Brown was diving off Little Palm Island, near Big Pine Key, around 34 miles (55km) northeast of Key West, at approximately 11 am on 8 May when the incident occurred.
According to FWC spokesperson Arielle Callender, Brown had a diver-down flag displayed at the time of the incident.
The vessel’s operator stopped following the collision, and passengers assisted in recovering Brown from the water before transporting her to shore, where she tragically died from her injuries.
‘The FWC extends its deepest condolences to Brown’s family and friends during this difficult time,’ the agency said in a statement.
Miami television station Local10 reported that local authorities described the vessel as travelling at speed at the time of the collision, although no charges have been announced and the boat operator has not been publicly identified.
The FWC is leading the investigation with assistance from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, although as of the time of publishing, no further details have been released by the FWC.
Under Florida law, vessels are required to remain at least 300ft (91m) from a displayed diver-down flag in open water unless operating at minimum headway speed.
Tributes on social media have described Ms Brown as ‘vibrant, adventurous, kindhearted, and deeply connected to the local community’
‘For many in the Florida Keys, this loss feels especially personal,’ writes a spokesperson for local media outlet Keys Life Magazine. ‘Life here revolves around the water – boating, diving, fishing, and spending time on the ocean are part of everyday life.
‘Incidents like this serve as a devastating reminder of how quickly tragedy can happen when safety is overlooked.
‘Many locals are once again urging boaters to slow down, stay alert, and respect dive flags at all times. Divers and snorkelers share these waters with boat traffic every day, and a single careless moment can forever change countless lives.’
Brown’s family have asked for privacy while they make arrangements for her funeral, and care arrangements for her young son.
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