WKU student dies following boat crash in South Carolina

LAKE MURRAY, S.C. (WLTX) – A 21-year-year-old Western Kentucky University student has died after a boating accident on Lake Murray last week.

Jonathan Brian of Shelbyville, Kentucky, died Tuesday morning at Prisma Health Richland, according to Newberry County Coroner Laura Kneece.

Brian was one of the occupants of a boat that collided with another in the Prosperity area of Newberry County around 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 25, 2024.

In statement posted to Facebook, the Bass Pro Shops Collegiate Bass Fishing Series stated, “The Association of Collegiate Anglers is saddened to learn about the passing of Western Kentucky University angler Johnathan Brian. We extend our thoughts and prayers to Johnathan’s family, friends, the college fishing community, and everyone involved.”

WKU released the following statement regarding Brian’s death:

“Yesterday, we lost a valuable member of the WKU family. Our thoughts are with Johnathan Brian’s family, loved ones and friends, and we extend our deepest condolences to them. His fishing partner was also injured in the accident, and we wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his return to campus.”