Family Tribute To Boat accident Son

The family of a 21-year-old man who died after a boating accident while he was out with friends in Chichester Harbour on Friday 1st July, have paid tribute to him.

Joel Eager from Shoreham fell out of a rigid inflatable boat near the Christian Youth Enterprises Sailing Centre in Cobnor, and was hit on the head by the boat's propeller.

He was flown to King’s Hospital in London by the Sussex Air Ambulance, but died on Sunday. 

Joel's family said:

"We are naturally devastated over the loss of Joel, who was fatally injured in a freak boating accident in Chichester Harbour.

"Joel had returned home having just graduated from Exeter University.  He was an extremely gifted and intelligent young man in the prime of life. 

"Our consolation is that he was enjoying the 'perfect day' in the company of close friends; he was poised to embrace a brilliant future, in every aspect of his full life; he was dearly loved by every one of us; and he did not suffer at all.

"May we ask for consideration and privacy during this difficult time."

Police tell us a full investigation has taken place and say it would appear to be a very tragic accident and is not being treated as suspicious.

The matter has now been passed to the Coroner and an inquest will be held in due course.