06/04/2026
An arrest has been made involving the Shem Creek area boating fatality in April. The following is a statement from SCDNR law enforcement.
On June 2, SCDNR Law Enforcement formally charged Edward Marion Tavel III, 21, of Charleston County in connection with a boating incident that occurred on the evening of April 25, in Charleston County. The incident claimed the life of Evan Andrew Greenleigh, 19, of Bethesda, Maryland, and required the remaining passengers to be transported to the hospital for medical treatment. The exact location of the crash was off King Street in Mount Pleasant.
The investigation determined that the vessel, rated to carry a maximum of four occupants, was being operated that night with seven people on board. Five passengers, including the victim, were positioned at the front of the vessel, significantly restricting the operator's line of sight. Traveling at an estimated 25 to 30 mph, Tavel failed to spot a floating dock in time to react, resulting in the fatal collision. The investigation revealed that Tavel did consume alcohol earlier in the day; however, a blood draw conducted at the hospital came back negative for alcohol.
SCDNR continues to extend its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim and remains committed to supporting all those affected by this tragedy. SCDNR urges all boaters to respect vessel capacity limits, position passengers in a manner that preserves the operator's visibility, and reduce speed in conditions where hazards may not be immediately visible, allowing adequate time to identify and avoid obstacles. Boating safety information is available on our website.
