In a tragic incident off the coast of South Florida, an American Airlines flight attendant lost her life after being struck by a boat while snorkeling. Her body was later discovered washed ashore on a local beach.
The victim, Kellie Melinda Williams, was found by two fishermen on Hollywood Beach around 8 p.m. Wednesday. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as reported by CBS Miami, her body exhibited injuries indicative of a collision with a vessel.
On Saturday, authorities identified the 31-year-old Williams and confirmed that her death resulted from blunt force trauma.
Investigators noted that Williams was snorkeling or diving near Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park on June 3. Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation investigators are collaborating with Hollywood detectives to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the case.
As of now, no information has been released regarding the boat involved or its occupants, and no charges have been filed related to Williams’ death.
One witness recalled seeing people pulling Williams’ body out of the water Wednesday night.
“Two fishermen were fishing right off the beach, and I saw them from my window pulling something, then I saw them drag something onto the shoreline,” Emilio Benitez told NBC6 South Florida. “And it turned out to be a lady’s body.”
Williams’ parents said their daughter was an accomplished snorkeler, describing her as a “great person,” according to the outlet.
The California native had recently moved to the Sunshine State and had gotten married within the last year.
The Miami-based Association of Professional Flight Attendants announced Williams’ death to her colleagues in an Instagram post on Friday.
“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our colleague and fellow MIA Flight Attendant, Kellie Williams,” the organization said in an Instagram post. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Kellie’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
Williams was employed by American Airlines.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague,” the airline told NBC 6 South Florida. “Our thoughts and support are with her family, loved ones and colleagues at this time.”