New Jersey Woman Charged with Vehicular Homicide After Fatal Memorial Day Boating Accident

Jennifer L. Pearson, 59, from New Jersey, is facing charges in connection with a fatal boating collision on Memorial Day that claimed the life of her 28-year-old son. Authorities allege she was operating the vessel under the influence when it struck a channel marker.

Pearson has been charged with several offenses, including death by vessel, which is a second-degree crime. Additional charges include operating a vessel under the influence, reckless operation of a vessel, operating without a boating safety certificate, and failing to maintain a proper lookout. These charges were outlined in a statement released by the New Jersey State Police.

The incident occurred on Memorial Day, approximately 5:45 p.m., in Barnegat Bay, near the Brant Beach Yacht Club in Long Beach. According to charging documents, Pearson was at the helm of her 23-foot center console boat when it reportedly collided with a channel marker. The impact ejected her son, Gunnar Pearson, 28, and his girlfriend into the water.

Gunnar Pearson was transported to a hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. Four other individuals aboard the boat were hospitalized with minor injuries.

Pearson voluntarily turned herself in at the New Jersey State Police Troop C Tuckerton Station on Wednesday, August 19. Court documents indicate that her blood alcohol level was recorded between .09 and .12, exceeding New Jersey's legal limit of .08. Investigators noted an odor of alcohol when she spoke with them, and she reportedly admitted to consuming two alcoholic beverages earlier that afternoon.

She is currently being held at the Ocean County Jail.

Remembering Gunnar Pearson

An online obituary described Gunnar Pearson as a "kind, funny, and deeply caring" individual. He had recently completed renovations on his first home, located in Forked River.

He was known as an enthusiastic outdoorsman, enjoying activities such as skiing, fishing, boating, running, and hunting.

He found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved — whether at home, on the beaches of Long Beach Island, on the ski slopes of Stratton, Vermont, or during family vacations in Maine. These moments together meant everything to him and will remain treasured by those who were fortunate enough to share them.

Authorities confirmed that the fatal crash remains under active investigation.