On Saturday, September 30, a fatal boat crash occurred along the Fox River in McHenry, Illinois.
The incident began when a motorboat lost its direction and veered away from the Fox River. The boat subsequently hit a house in its path. The impact was so forceful that the boat was split into two distinct parts.
Surveillance recordings show the boat speeding toward the coast. After hitting land, the boat continued its course, traveling an additional 73 feet before colliding with the residence, which endured only minor structural damage.
Julie and Timothy Mertins were the only individuals on the boat during the time of the crash. Julie Mertins, aged 61, faced severe blunt-force injuries due to the crash. She was declared deceased at the site of the accident. Timothy Mertins, her 62-year-old spouse, was found in a critical state. He was promptly airlifted to a hospital. He did not survive surgery. The cause of death for both was identified as blunt force trauma.
The Mertins couple was nearing their 33rd wedding anniversary in a month. People who knew them mentioned their strong companionship and shared hobbies.