# Fatal Barnegat Bay boating accident investigation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/20260822-fatal-barnegat-bay-boating-accident-investigation
> Updated: 2026-08-22T16:34:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Following a motorboat crash in Barnegat Bay on May 25, Jennifer L. Pearson was charged in connection with the death of her 28-year-old son, Gunnar Pearson. The incident occurred during Memorial Day weekend near the Brant Beach Yacht Club when the vessel struck a navigation marker, throwing several passengers into the water. While four others sustained injuries, Gunnar Pearson later died from his injuries at a hospital.

Authorities determined that Pearson was operating the vessel recklessly while under the influence of alcohol, with blood alcohol levels measured between 0.09 and 0.12. She faces multiple charges, including causing the death of another while operating a vessel under the influence, reckless operation, and failure to maintain a proper lookout. After surrendering to police and a detention hearing, Pearson was released from the Ocean County Jail. She is scheduled to return to court on September 22.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-22: New Jersey woman charged in fatal boating accident

Jennifer L. Pearson faces charges including causing death under the influence after a boating accident in Barnegat Bay, NJ, killed her 28-year-old son.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-jersey-woman-charged-in-fatal-boating-accident

### 2026-08-20: Jennifer Pearson charged in fatal Barnegat Bay boating crash

Jennifer Pearson was charged with death by vessel after a boating accident on Barnegat Bay killed her son. She has been released pending a September court date.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jennifer-pearson-charged-in-fatal-barnegat-bay-boating-crash

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Cite as: Fatal Barnegat Bay boating accident investigation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/20260822-fatal-barnegat-bay-boating-accident-investigation