A teenage boy, known as Eddie to his family, tragically lost his life during a global sailing expedition when he was struck by the propellers of a high-speed, unregistered boat while snorkeling in the South Pacific on August 9, 2020. The incident occurred in Mo’orea Bay near Tahiti in French Polynesia. The 14-year-old British-Polish boy was enjoying the final months of his family’s round-the-world voyage when the rented boat, operated by a local guide, collided with him.

Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Eddie’s injuries were deemed fatal upon reaching the shore. An investigation into involuntary manslaughter was initiated by local authorities, but no charges were filed. Conflicting testimonies were presented regarding the speed of the boat, with Eddie’s father expressing concerns about the boat’s velocity.

The coroner’s inquiry indicated that the boat was likely within the speed limit, although the specific zone where the incident occurred had different regulations. Legal challenges from the family to pursue charges were unsuccessful, with authorities citing insufficient evidence for conviction. The driver and his passenger confirmed consuming alcohol before the incident, but toxicology reports later showed no traces of intoxicants.

The coroner acknowledged the driver’s familiarity with the area and boating experience but could not establish unlawful intent. The court extended condolences to the grieving family for their profound loss. Following Eddie’s tragic death, his family initiated a fundraiser and established a charity in his memory to support young musicians. Eddie was laid to rest in West Hoathly, his childhood village, where his mother emphasized his love for music and wished for other children to share in that passion.