Flight Attendant Killed by Boat During Snorkeling Trip, Body Found by Fishermen

An American Airlines flight attendant died after authorities say she was struck by a boat while snorkeling in South Florida, before her body was later found washed up near Hollywood Beach.

Kellie Melinda Williams, 31, was found in the surf by two fishermen around 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3. Officials said her body showed injuries consistent with being hit by a vessel, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Williams was publicly identified on Saturday, and officials later ruled that she died from blunt force injuries.

“Based on the investigation, it appears the deceased was snorkeling/diving in the area of Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park on June 3,” officials said, according to CBS Miami.

Florida Fish and Wildlife investigators are working with Hollywood detectives on the case.

Authorities have not released details about the boat believed to be involved, and no information has been made public about the people who may have been onboard. No charges have been filed.

One witness said he saw the shocking moment the fishermen brought Williams’ body to shore.

“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 experienced snorkeler and described her as a “great person.”

The California native had recently moved to Florida and had gotten married within the past year.

Williams worked for American Airlines and was based in Miami.

The Miami-based Association of Professional Flight Attendants announced her death in an Instagram post, sharing condolences with her family, friends and colleagues.

“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our colleague and fellow MIA Flight Attendant, Kellie Williams,” the organization said. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Kellie’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.”

American Airlines also released a statement after her death.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague,” the airline told NBC6 South Florida. “Our thoughts and support are with her family, loved ones and colleagues at this time.”

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine what happened on the water and who was operating the vessel that struck Williams.