Kellie Melinda Williams, 31, was found in the surf near Hollywood Beach after investigators said she may have been snorkeling or diving nearby.
HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — A 31-year-old American Airlines flight attendant was found dead on Hollywood Beach after investigators said her injuries were consistent with a vessel strike while she was snorkeling or diving off South Florida.
Kellie Melinda Williams was discovered in the surf on June 3 after two fishermen spotted her body near Hollywood Beach and called authorities at about 8 p.m. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Hollywood police are investigating the case. No boat has been identified, no suspect has been named and no charges have been filed.
Investigators believe Williams had been in the water near Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park before her body was found several miles away near the beach. Officials said the injuries pointed to a vessel strike, but they have not said whether anyone saw the impact or whether the boat operator knew a collision had happened. The agency said its investigators are working with Hollywood detectives to piece together the final timeline. “The FWC would like to extend its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Kellie Williams during this difficult time,” the commission said.
Williams, a California native, had recently moved to Florida and had married within the past year, according to family members. She worked as a Miami-based flight attendant for American Airlines. Her parents described her as an accomplished snorkeler and a “great person.” American Airlines said it was “deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague,” adding that its thoughts and support were with Williams’ family, loved ones and coworkers.
The area where investigators believe Williams had been snorkeling or diving sits along a busy stretch of Broward County coast used by boaters, anglers, swimmers and divers. Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park borders Port Everglades and includes beach access, waterways and reef areas. Authorities have not released details about weather, visibility, currents or boating traffic at the time Williams was believed to be in the water.
The investigation remains active. Wildlife officers are seeking witness accounts, boating information and any details that could help identify the vessel involved. Officials have not announced whether they have video, marine radio records or other evidence. The key unanswered questions include where Williams entered the water, when she was struck and how far her body drifted before the fishermen found her.
People near the beach described a grim scene as emergency crews arrived after the fishermen made the discovery. One witness told local news outlets he saw the fishermen pulling something from the water before authorities reached the shoreline. What began as an unusual sight in the surf quickly became a death investigation as officers secured the area and began gathering information.
As of Sunday, June 7, the case remained under investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Hollywood police. Officials have not released the name of any boat operator or announced a next public briefing.
Author note: Last updated June 7, 2026.