Who Was Kellie Melinda Williams? Flight Attendant Whose Body Washed Up on Florida Beach After Being Struck by Boat Was Avid Snorkeler

An American Airlines flight attendant was killed after being hit by a boat while snorkeling off the coast of South Florida before her body was found washed ashore on a nearby beach. Kellie Melinda Williams’ body was found in the surf near Hollywood Beach by two fishermen at around 8 p.m. on Wednesday.

The injuries she sustained were consistent with being struck by a boat, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, CBS Miami reported. Williams, 31, was publicly identified on Saturday after authorities determined that she died from blunt force injuries. Officials haven’t revealed any details about the boat involved in Williams’ death or those on board.

Death Circumstances Unclear

“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 the outlet. “Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation investigators are working in partnership with Hollywood detectives on this case.”

So far, no charges have been filed in connection with the case. One witness said they saw people pulling Williams’ body from the water on Wednesday night.

“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 described their daughter as an experienced snorkeler and remembered her as a “great person,” according to the outlet.

Star in Her Own Right

Originally from California, Williams had recently relocated to Florida and had married last year. The Miami-based Association of Professional Flight Attendants shared the news of Williams’ death with her colleagues in an Instagram post on Friday.

“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our colleague and fellow MIA Flight Attendant, Kellie Williams,” the organization said in an Instagram post.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Kellie’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Williams worked as a flight attendant for American Airlines.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague,” the airline told NBC 6 South Florida. “Our thoughts and support are with her family, loved ones and colleagues at this time.”