Oregon Inlet, October 21, 2025
News Summary
A boating accident in Oregon Inlet resulted in the tragic death of Francis Hennigan Jr., a 50-year-old man from Pennsylvania, while another individual was injured. The incident involved a yacht named ‘Moonstruck,’ which capsized under unknown circumstances. The U.S. Coast Guard responded, but Hennigan was pronounced dead at the scene. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is investigating the accident to determine its cause, raising concerns about safety in this challenging navigational area.
Fatal Boating Accident in Oregon Inlet Claims Life of Pennsylvania Man
A tragic boating accident occurred in Oregon Inlet, Dare County, North Carolina on Saturday, resulting in the death of a 50-year-old man from Pennsylvania. The deceased was identified as Francis Hennigan Jr. from Glenmoore, Pennsylvania. Another individual, Taylor Flannery, 29, from Point Pleasant, New Jersey, sustained minor injuries when the boat they were on capsized.
The pair were traveling on a 50-foot yacht named “Moonstruck,” on their way from Cape May, New Jersey, to Florida, with plans to stop in Beaufort, North Carolina, for repairs. At the time of the accident, the yacht was operating with three of its four engines functioning but capsized under unknown circumstances. Neither Hennigan nor Flannery was wearing a life jacket when the incident occurred.
The U.S. Coast Guard was alerted to the situation and arrived approximately 30 minutes later. Flannery was rescued after managing to find a life jacket to stay afloat after being thrown into the water. He was then transported to Outer Banks Health Hospital for medical attention. Unfortunately, Hennigan was found unresponsive shortly after the incident and was pronounced dead by medical personnel.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is currently investigating the accident to determine the factors that led to the yacht’s capsizing. The hull of the “Moonstruck” was later discovered washed up on Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, indicating the severity of the incident.
Witnesses have described the Oregon Inlet as a dangerous and challenging area to navigate, even for those with experience. Friends of Hennigan characterized him as an experienced captain who often made trips between New Jersey and Florida, which raises questions about the conditions that caused the boat to capsize.
Authorities have not yet officially determined the cause of Hennigan’s death; however, it is believed to be drowning. As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge surrounding this unfortunate event.
Key Facts
- Incident Date: Saturday
- Location: Oregon Inlet, Dare County, North Carolina
- Deceased: Francis Hennigan Jr., 50, Glenmoore, Pennsylvania
- Injured: Taylor Flannery, 29, Point Pleasant, New Jersey
- Vessel: “Moonstruck,” 50-foot yacht
- Trip Origin: Cape May, New Jersey
- Intended Destination: Florida, with a stop in Beaufort, North Carolina
- Conditions: Three of four engines functioning; both men not wearing life jackets
- Rescue: Flannery rescued and hospitalized; Hennigan pronounced dead
FAQ
What happened in the Oregon Inlet boating accident?
A Point Pleasant Beach man was injured and another man was killed when their boat capsized in Oregon Inlet, Dare County, North Carolina on Saturday.
Who were the individuals involved in the accident?
The deceased man was identified as Francis Hennigan Jr., 50, from Glenmoore, Pennsylvania, while the injured man is Taylor Flannery, 29, from Point Pleasant, New Jersey.
What vessel was involved in the accident?
Both men were on a 50-foot yacht named “Moonstruck,” traveling from Cape May, New Jersey to Florida.
What is currently being investigated?
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is investigating the incident to uncover the factors leading to the boat capsizing.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accident Type | Boating Accident |
| Location | Oregon Inlet, Dare County, North Carolina |
| Victims | Francis Hennigan Jr. (deceased), Taylor Flannery (injured) |
| Vessel | “Moonstruck,” 50-foot yacht |
| Incident Circumstances | Capsizing with three engines functioning |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing by North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission |
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Additional Resources
- 13 News Now
- People
- News Observer
- WTKR
- Patch
- Wikipedia: Boating Accident
- Google Search: Oregon Inlet boating accident
- Google Scholar: Oregon Inlet boating incident
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Accident
- Google News: Francis Hennigan boating accident
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.
