The Intracoastal Waterway in Little River, South Carolina became the site of an unimaginable tragedy on July 19, 2023. On that day, 11-year-old Olivia Grace Knighton lost her life in a devastating Olivia Knighton boating accident.
Her story continues to impact boating safety discussions nearly two years later in 2025. This article provides the most current information about this heartbreaking incident.
What Happened to Olivia Grace Knighton?
Olivia Grace Knighton was on a 23-foot boat with eleven other people on the Intracoastal Waterway. The vessel was suddenly rocked by a large wake from another passing boat.
The force of this wake destabilized their craft significantly. Nine of the twelve people aboard were thrown overboard into the water, including young Olivia.
In the chaos that followed, Olivia was struck by the boat’s propeller. She sustained fatal injuries from this propeller strike.
Emergency responders rushed her to McLeod Seacoast Hospital. Despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries later that day.
The Horry County Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity as Olivia Knighton of Attleboro, Massachusetts. No other injuries were reported in this wake-related boating accident.
The summer day that began with family enjoyment ended in tragedy. The Olivia Knighton boating accident forever changed multiple lives.
What Happened to Brad Knighton’s Daughter?
Brad Knighton, a former Major League Soccer goalkeeper for the New England Revolution, lost his daughter in this tragic accident. Olivia was his only daughter.
In the immediate aftermath, Brad shared his grief on social media. “There are no words to express the depth of our profound grief and sorrow,” he wrote.
He described Olivia as “beautiful and brilliant” and expressed shock at how suddenly “her bright and pure light was taken away from us.”
Brad noted that Olivia shared his passion for soccer. “Olivia loved soccer and the Revolution with all of her heart,” he stated in his message.
On the first anniversary in 2024, Brad reflected on social media about the “hardest year of my life.” His message touched many in the soccer community.
The family’s journey through grief has inspired many. Brad continues to honor his daughter through advocacy and foundation work.
Investigation Details
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources initially investigated the incident. They collected witness statements and examined the boat thoroughly.
Shortly after, the United States Coast Guard took over as lead investigative agency. This transition happened because a commercial vessel was reportedly involved in creating the wake.
The investigation focused on several key elements. These included the size and source of the wake and the stability of the vessel carrying Olivia.
Investigators also examined passenger distribution and whether safety regulations were followed. The detailed inquiry sought to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In 2025, the investigation findings continue to influence boating safety regulations. The case has become a reference point for wake management in busy waterways.
Maritime safety experts still reference this case in training materials. The Olivia Knighton boating accident changed how wake hazards are assessed.
The Olivia Knighton Foundation Today
In November 2023, the Knighton family established the Olivia Knighton Foundation. This organization was created to channel their grief into positive action.
The foundation’s mission reflects Olivia’s spirit: supporting others pursuing their dreams. Since its inception, the foundation has grown substantially.
As of 2025, the foundation has provided numerous scholarships to young soccer players. It has also funded boating safety education programs along the Atlantic coast.
The foundation hosts an annual memorial tournament in Olivia’s name. Soccer teams from across New England participate to honor her memory.
Brad Knighton remains actively involved in the foundation’s work. He frequently speaks at boating safety events to share Olivia’s story.
The foundation recently reached a milestone of helping 500 young athletes. Their work ensures Olivia’s passion for sports lives on.
Boating Safety Lessons
The Olivia Knighton boating accident highlighted several critical safety concerns. Wake management remains the primary factor in this incident.
Vessel wake hazards are now taken more seriously on busy waterways. Boat operators receive more training about the wakes they create and their potential impacts.
Proper weight distribution and passenger placement are emphasized in boating courses. With twelve people aboard a 23-foot vessel, stability becomes crucial.
Emergency preparedness for multiple-person overboard situations has improved. New protocols have been developed based on lessons from this accident.
Personal flotation devices are now mandatory in more situations. Some jurisdictions have strengthened requirements specifically citing the Knighton case.
The concept of “wake awareness” has entered boating education vocabulary. Recreational boaters now understand its importance thanks to safety campaigns.
Community Impact in 2025
Nearly two years later, Olivia’s story continues to resonate with the boating and soccer communities. The New England Revolution maintains a memorial to her at their facility.
Youth soccer programs across Massachusetts have created tributes to Olivia. Many teams display her initials on their uniforms or equipment.
The hashtag #RememberOlivia appears regularly on social media. It’s often used to promote boating safety and youth sports opportunities.
Brad Knighton continues his coaching career with the Revolution’s academy. He has become an influential advocate for water safety education.
The soccer community embraces the Knighton family’s ongoing initiatives. Annual memorial events draw significant participation from players and fans alike.
Olivia’s classmates, now in middle school, carry her memory forward. They participate in foundation events and share stories of their friend.
Latest Developments
In early 2025, new federal guidelines for wake management were implemented. These regulations were partly influenced by the investigation into Olivia’s accident.
Propeller guard requirements have been expanded for recreational vessels. Several states have passed “Olivia’s Law” requiring additional safety measures.
The Knighton family recently established a boating safety center in Little River. It provides free education to recreational boaters in the area.
Technology for wake detection and warning systems has advanced. New boats now include features designed to prevent similar accidents.
The Olivia Knighton Foundation continues to grow its impact. A recent documentary about Olivia’s story has raised awareness nationwide.
Boating safety statistics show improving trends since these implementations. The Olivia Knighton boating accident has helped save countless lives.
Conclusion
The Olivia Knighton boating accident remains a powerful reminder of water safety importance. Her story has changed regulations and practices across the country.
Brad Knighton’s advocacy ensures his daughter’s memory creates positive change. The foundation bearing Olivia’s name supports young people following their dreams.
Nearly two years later, the impact of this tragedy continues to ripple outward. Boating safety has improved, potentially saving countless lives.
Olivia Grace Knighton’s legacy goes far beyond the tragic circumstances of her passing. Her bright spirit lives on through those who remember and honor her name.
For more information or to support the foundation, visit the official Olivia Knighton Foundation website. Together, we can prevent similar tragedies on our waterways.
