Young outdoorsman was killed in Memorial Day boat crash. Now his mom is accused of causing it
Jennifer L. Pearson, 59, is charged with death by vessel and operating a vessel under the influence
NEED TO KNOW
- Jennifer L. Pearson, 59, is charged in connection with a boat crash that killed her son, Gunnar, and injured others
- The boat crash occurred on May 25
- Pearson turned herself in on Wednesday, Aug. 19
A New Jersey woman has been charged in connection with a boat crash that killed her son and injured others on Memorial Day.
Jennifer L. Pearson, 59, has been charged with death by vessel, a second-degree offense; operating a vessel under the influence; reckless operation of a vessel; operating a vessel without a Boating Safety Certificate; and failure to have a proper lookout, according to a New Jersey State Police news release.
Pearson voluntarily surrendered at New Jersey State Police Troop “C” Tuckerton Station on Wednesday, Aug. 19, state police said.
New Jersey State Police were called to the scene at approximately 5:45 p.m. on May 25, when a boat Pearson was allegedly operating struck a day marker in Barnegat Bay, ejecting two people, including Pearson’s 28-year-old son Gunnar.
Gunnar and the other occupant were transported to an area hospital in critical condition. Gunnar died from his injuries.
Four other people on the boat were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries, state police said.
According to NJ 101.5, Pearson was released after a detention hearing on Friday, Aug. 21.
Pearson is a paralegal and substitute teacher, per NJ 101.5.
According to an online obituary, Gunnar, who was described as “kind, funny, and deeply caring,” had recently completed renovations on his first home in Forked River.
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He was also described as an avid outdoorsman who loved skiing, fishing, boating, running and hunting.
“Gunnar will be remembered for his warm heart, his sense of humor, his loyalty, and the love he gave so freely to those around him,” the obituary states. “His life, though far too short, was full of meaning, connection, and love.”
