News Summary
A tragic boating accident in Currituck Sound resulted in the death of a 44-year-old man from Maryland. Scott Matthew Johnson fell overboard while retrieving an anchor. Despite prompt efforts from fellow passengers and authorities, he could not be revived. An investigation by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is ongoing, and safety officials are emphasizing the importance of wearing life jackets and safe boating practices.
Currituck Sound, North Carolina – A tragic boating incident on July 22, 2025, has resulted in the death of a 44-year-old man, Scott Matthew Johnson, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, while on a rented pontoon boat in the Currituck Sound. Johnson was traveling with his fiancée and her family when he experienced a medical emergency that led to his fatal accident.
The incident began while Johnson was attempting to retrieve the anchor of the pontoon boat, rented in Duck, North Carolina. The anchor had become entangled in grass and mud. During the retrieval process, Johnson fell overboard into the water after experiencing the medical episode. Passengers from the boat promptly entered the water and successfully pulled him back onto the vessel.
Once back on board, fellow passengers initiated CPR and other lifesaving measures, but unfortunately, their efforts were futile. Despite wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident, which assisted in his recovery from the water, Johnson could not be revived. The call regarding the emergency was received by authorities at 11:28 a.m.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding Johnson’s death. Preliminary investigations suggest that neither alcohol nor drugs played a role in the incident. An autopsy is set to be performed by the Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the exact cause of death.
Emergency response teams, including the Currituck County Sheriff’s Office, Lower Currituck Fire and Rescue, and Currituck County EMS personnel, were dispatched following the incident to provide assistance.
Details of the Incident
On the day of the incident, the rented pontoon boat had approximately ten people on board. The focus of the group was recreational enjoyment on the picturesque waters of Currituck Sound. However, the day turned tragic when Johnson encountered a medical emergency while trying to retrieve the anchor.
Response and Investigation
Rescue efforts from other passengers onboard highlighted the immediate response to the emergency, showcasing the importance of teamwork in crises. Despite the commendable actions taken to save Johnson, it became necessary for law enforcement and medical professionals to conduct a thorough examination of the situation.
The investigation by NCWRC aims to uncover further details about Johnson’s medical condition and the events leading to his fall overboard. Authorities are working diligently to gather all pertinent information to understand the full context of the boating incident.
Safety Reminders for Boaters
In light of the tragic event, officials have emphasized the critical importance of safety on the water. The NCWRC has reminded the public about the necessity of wearing life jackets while boating, as well as ensuring that a sober, responsible individual operates any watercraft. These precautions can be vital in preventing similar incidents in the future.
Background Context
Boating within the Currituck Sound is a popular recreational activity, attracting numerous visitors each year. While many enjoy a safe and pleasant experience, incidents like the one involving Johnson serve as unfortunate reminders of the need for vigilance and preparedness while on the water.
As the investigation proceeds, the community remains in mourning for Johnson and his family, hoping that the findings will help prevent future tragedies in similar circumstances.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Loss: Coast Guard Suspends Search for Tuna Captain
Awareness Grows as Florida Manatees Sighted in Outer Banks
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
Community Mourning for Fishing Legend Charlie Griffin
Nags Head, North Carolina: A Fishing Phenomenon
ECU Pirates Achieve Series Sweep Over William and Mary
ECU Baseball Triumphs with Milestones and Victories
Additional Resources
- WITN News
- Wikipedia: Currituck Sound
- 13 News Now
- Google Search: Boating Safety Currituck
- WTKR News
- Google Scholar: Boating Incidents
- Island Packet
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Safety
- MSN News
- Google News: Currituck Boating Accidents
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.
