A 59-year-old New Jersey mother has been charged in connection with a fatal Memorial Day boating accident that resulted in her son's death. Jennifer L. Pearson was arrested on charges including death by vessel, operating a vessel under the influence, reckless operation, operating without a boating safety certificate, and failure to maintain a proper lookout.
The incident occurred around 5:45 p.m. on Memorial Day near the Brant Beach Yacht Club in Long Beach, along Barnegat Bay. According to charging documents, Pearson was operating her 23-foot center console boat when it struck a channel marker. The collision allegedly caused her 28-year-old son, Gunnar Pearson, and his girlfriend to be ejected into the water.
Gunnar Pearson was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Four other individuals sustained minor injuries and were also hospitalized. Jennifer Pearson voluntarily surrendered to New Jersey State Police on August 19.
Investigators reported that Pearson's blood alcohol content was between 0.09 and 0.12, exceeding the legal limit of 0.08. Authorities noted the smell of alcohol when Pearson arrived to speak with them, and she stated she had consumed two alcoholic drinks earlier that day.
Gunnar Pearson, described in an online obituary as "kind, funny, and deeply caring," had recently completed renovations on his first home. He was remembered as an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed skiing, fishing, boating, running, and hunting. The obituary highlighted his joy in spending time with loved ones during various activities and family vacations.
Jennifer Pearson is currently being held at the Ocean County Jail. The fatal crash remains under investigation by the New Jersey State Police.