Oregon Inlet, Dare County, North Carolina, October 19, 2025
News Summary
A boat capsized in the Oregon Inlet, resulting in the death of Francis Hennigan Jr. and injuries to Taylor Flannery. The U.S. Coast Guard rescued Flannery while Hennigan was found unresponsive. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is investigating the incident, highlighting the need for boating safety and life jacket use.
Dare County, North Carolina – One person is dead and another is injured after a boat capsized in the Oregon Inlet on Saturday afternoon. The deceased has been identified as Francis Hennigan Jr., 50, from Glenmoore, Pennsylvania. The injured individual, Taylor Flannery, 29, from Point Pleasant, New Jersey, was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Hennigan and Flannery were navigating a 50-foot sportfishing boat while traveling from Cape May, New Jersey, to Florida. Their journey included a planned stop in Beaufort, North Carolina, for repairs to a damaged propeller. At the time of the incident, the vessel was operational using three out of four engines.
Both occupants were thrown into the water when the boat capsized, and neither was wearing a life jacket. Flannery was taken to Outer Banks Hospital with minor injuries, while Hennigan was found shortly after in the water, unresponsive. Medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is conducting an investigation into the incident. A spokesman emphasized the importance of wearing properly fitted life jackets while boating and extended condolences to the family of Mr. Hennigan.
Incident Details
- Victim Identified: Francis Hennigan Jr., 50, Glenmoore, Pennsylvania
- Injured Individual: Taylor Flannery, 29, Point Pleasant, New Jersey
- Date: Saturday afternoon
- Location: Oregon Inlet, Dare County, N.C.
- Boat Type: 50-foot sportfishing boat
- Journey: From Cape May, New Jersey, to Florida
- Incident Circumstances: Capsized while navigating the inlet, operational on three engines
- Rescue: Flannery rescued by U.S. Coast Guard, Hennigan found unresponsive
- Status: Investigation ongoing by North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Background on Boating Safety
This tragic event highlights the critical importance of boating safety and the use of personal flotation devices. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission frequently emphasizes the need for wearing life jackets, particularly in emergency situations where individuals can be easily thrown overboard. The commission aims to reduce boating accidents through educational initiatives and safety reminders.
Conclusion
This incident has served as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with boating. Communities are urged to take the necessary precautions to ensure safety while enjoying water activities. The tragic loss of Mr. Hennigan underlines the significant impact such accidents can have on families and friends.
FAQ
What happened in Dare County, North Carolina?
One person is dead and another is injured after a boat capsized in the Oregon Inlet, Dare County, N.C.
Who were the victims?
The deceased is identified as Francis Hennigan Jr., 50, from Glenmoore, Pennsylvania, and the injured individual is Taylor Flannery, 29, from Point Pleasant, New Jersey.
What was the boat used for?
Hennigan and Flannery were navigating a 50-foot sportfishing boat traveling from Cape May, New Jersey, to Florida.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon.
What was the status of the boat at the time of capsizing?
At the time of capsizing, the boat was operational using three out of four engines.
What were the safety measures taken by the victims?
Both occupants were not wearing life jackets.
What happened after the capsizing?
Flannery was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard and taken to Outer Banks Hospital with minor injuries, while Hennigan was found unresponsive and pronounced dead by medical personnel.
Who is investigating the incident?
The incident is currently under investigation by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
What safety message has been emphasized following the incident?
A spokesman for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission emphasized the importance of wearing properly fitted life jackets while boating.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Oregon Inlet Tragedy: Pennsylvania Man Dies After Boat Capsizes
Deceased Commercial Fisherman Found in Hatteras Inlet
Fishing Trip Turns Troublesome for Captain Danchise
Tragic Boating Incident in Currituck Sound
Tragic Loss: Coast Guard Suspends Search for Tuna Captain
Rare Orca Sighting Off the Coast of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
Body of Overdue Fisherman Found Off Oregon Inlet
Tragic Boating Accident in Oregon Inlet, NC
Body of Local Fisherman Recovered from Atlantic Ocean
Body of Local Health Care Provider Recovered After Fishing Trip
Additional Resources
- 13 News Now
- Wikipedia: Boating Safety
- WITN
- Google Search: boat accidents in North Carolina
- WRAL
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating
- WTKR
- Google News: North Carolina boating accidents
- Pilot Online
- Google Scholar: North Carolina boating safety
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
