A tragic accident claimed the life of 18-year-old Zeina Mahafzah from Wayne, New Jersey, over the weekend at the Jersey Shore when she was struck by a boat propeller, authorities reported. The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Sunday at Sunset Park on Long Beach Island.
According to a statement from the New Jersey State Police, Mahafzah was attempting to transition from a raft back onto a boat when she was fatally injured by the boat’s propeller. The police confirmed that Mahafzah sustained “fatal injuries” but did not provide specific details about the nature of those injuries.
Early reports from NBC 10 Philadelphia suggested that Mahafzah might have been dismembered by the propeller, with her father allegedly driving the boat at the time. However, these details were later removed from the outlet’s coverage, and the authorities have not confirmed who was operating the boat or who witnessed the tragic event.
First responders reported that several people on the boat witnessed the fatal accident, adding to the distress at the scene. The incident has prompted an ongoing investigation by the New Jersey State Police to determine the exact circumstances leading to Mahafzah’s death. As the investigation continues, the local community is left grieving the loss of a young life in what should have been a routine and enjoyable day on the water.
This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with boating, particularly the risks posed by propellers. Safety experts often emphasize the importance of following strict safety protocols when operating or boarding watercraft, especially in situations where people are in close proximity to the boat’s engine and propeller.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus will be on understanding how this tragedy occurred and what measures can be taken to prevent similar accidents in the future. The heartbreaking loss of Zeina Mahafzah is felt deeply by her family, friends, and the community, who are all grappling with the sudden and devastating turn of events.