By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2026-06-08 01:57:50 | Updated at 2026-06-08 15:19:30
13 hours ago
The body of a flight attendant was found washed ashore in southern Florida last week after she was likely hit in the head by a boat.
Kellie Melinda Williams was found dead around 8pm last Wednesday by fishermen in Hollywood Beach, which is just north of Miami.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission identified Williams on Friday and said that a preliminary investigation indicated her injuries were consistent with being struck by a vessel, according to CBS News.
Homicide detectives who have been investigating the case said that the flight attendant, who worked for American Airlines, had likely been snorkeling or diving earlier in the day that her body was found.
The Hollywood Police Department released a statement following the tragic discovery that said: 'Based on the investigation, it appears the deceased was snorkeling/diving in the area of Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park on June 3.
'Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation investigators are working in partnership with Hollywood detectives on this case.'
Officials did not say if they have any information about the boat that likely struck and killed Williams, who may have been driving it or if there are any suspects.
Witnesses recounted seeing the fishermen who found the flight attendant's body pulling it from the water.
The body of Kellie Melinda Williams, 31, was found washed ashore on Hollywood Beach in southern Florida last week. Police believe she was struck by a boat while snorkeling or diving
Williams was a flight attendant for American Airlines. Her body was found around 8pm last Wednesday by fishermen
Williams regularly posted photos and videos of herself snorkeling on Instagram. She is pictured with a fish in a video she posted
'I saw them from my window pulling something, then I saw them drag something onto the shoreline,' Emilio Benitez, 31, told NBC Miami. 'And it turned out to be a lady’s body.'
The outlet spoke to the woman's 'heartbroken' and 'distraught' parents, who reportedly described her as an accomplished snorkeler and a 'great person.'
Indeed, the flight attendant's Instagram page is full of pictures and videos of her snorkeling and swimming.
She also regularly posted beautiful photos and videos of the wildlife she encountered through the hobby.
Williams was originally from California and had recently moved to Florida. She was married less than a year ago in October of 2025, according to her social media.
American Airlines shared a statement with NBC Miami that said: 'We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague.
'Our thoughts and support are with her family, loved ones and colleagues at this time.'
The Miami-based Association of Professional Flight Attendants shared a public statement on Instagram that said: 'It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our colleague and fellow MIA Flight Attendant, Kellie Williams.
Williams was originally from California and had recently moved to Florida. She is pictured getting married in October of last year
Both American Airlines and the Association of Professional Flight Attendants shared statements expressing their condolences for the death of Williams
'Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Kellie’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.'
Hollywood Police have asked anyone who may have seen Williams in the water or struck by a boat to contact the department at 954-764-4357, or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at 888-404-FWCC.
