Two Dead After Jet Ski Crash in Marco Island: Legal Implications for Families

A tragic accident on Sunday claimed the lives of two individuals after a jet ski collided with a dock near Caxambas Court in Marco Island. Authorities with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Marco Island Police Department are investigating the fatal crash, which left neighbors and local boaters shaken.

According to witnesses, a jet ski was seen traveling at high speed when it went out of control and slammed into a dock. Neighbor Mark Murlowski described the chilling moment: “It came flying by here, and I saw it just before it hit the dock.”

When first responders arrived, two bodies were found in the waterway. Multiple marine units with flashing lights secured the scene both by boat and road access points. Authorities confirmed that the FWC is leading the investigation, though the names of the victims have not yet been released pending family notification.

Florida consistently ranks as one of the top states for boating and personal watercraft accidents, with jet skis accounting for a significant portion. Contributing factors often include:

• Excessive speed or reckless operation
• Failure to maintain a safe distance from docks, boats, or other watercraft
• Inexperience of the operator, as many riders are tourists or renters unfamiliar with local waterways
• Mechanical failures or improper maintenance of the jet ski
• Alcohol or drug impairment, which can heighten the risk of loss of control

According to Florida Statute § 327.39, anyone operating a personal watercraft (PWC) like a jet ski must adhere to strict safety regulations, including avoiding reckless operation and maintaining a proper lookout. Violations can result in both criminal penalties and civil liability.

Potential Liability in a Jet Ski Wrongful Death Case

When tragedies like this occur, surviving family members may have grounds for a wrongful death claim under Florida Statute § 768.19. The following parties could potentially be held liable:

• The operator of the jet ski if negligence, recklessness, or impairment played a role.
• The owner of the jet ski if they negligently entrusted the watercraft to someone inexperienced, unlicensed, or impaired.
• Rental companies or tour operators if the jet ski was rented and safety protocols were ignored, such as failing to provide proper instructions, ignoring weather conditions, or not ensuring safety equipment (like life jackets) was used.
• Manufacturers or maintenance companies if a mechanical defect or failure contributed to the crash.

Compensation in a wrongful death claim may include funeral expenses, medical bills, loss of companionship, loss of financial support, and emotional damages suffered by the family.

What Families Should Do After a Fatal Jet Ski Accident

The aftermath of such a devastating crash can be overwhelming. Families seeking justice should take the following steps:

1. Request the accident report from FWC or the local police department.
2. Preserve evidence such as witness contact information, photographs, or video footage.
3. Determine whether the jet ski was privately owned or rented. Liability often depends on this detail.
4. Consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney who can investigate the accident, identify liable parties, and file claims against all responsible entities.

The heartbreaking deaths of two people on Marco Island highlight the dangers of jet ski accidents in Florida’s busy waterways. While the investigation is still underway, questions remain about what caused the operator to lose control and whether negligence or equipment issues were involved.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we help families navigate the legal process after devastating accidents on Florida’s waterways. Our attorneys investigate potential negligence, identify all liable parties, and pursue compensation to provide financial relief and accountability.

If you have lost a loved one in a boating or jet ski accident in Florida, call our office today for a free consultation.