A 61-year-old Tampa man was killed and another person was injured Saturday after their boat struck a rock jetty near Picnic Island Park, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Officials said two people were aboard the 27-foot vessel when it hit the jetty. The impact ejected both occupants into Tampa Bay.

One person managed to swim to shore and was taken to a hospital for treatment. First responders pulled the second boater, identified as David A. Hochberg, from the water. He was pronounced dead.

Tampa police and Hillsborough County fire crews assisted state wildlife officers with the response. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Why it matters

The deadly crash comes during the summer boating season, when Tampa Bay waterways can be especially busy.

It also highlights why disaster preparedness extends onto the water. A collision, sudden thunderstorm, equipment failure or person falling overboard can turn a routine trip into an emergency with little warning.

The circumstances surrounding Saturday's crash remain under investigation, so officials have not said what factors contributed to it.

Before heading onto Tampa Bay

Boaters can reduce their vulnerability by preparing for an emergency before leaving the dock. That includes wearing a properly fitted life jacket, checking marine weather conditions, knowing the location of channels and navigational hazards, carrying required safety equipment and making sure navigation lights and communication equipment work.

Someone on land should also know your planned route and expected return time.

Florida's summer weather creates another concern. Thunderstorms can develop quickly and bring dangerous lightning, strong winds, rough water and sharply reduced visibility. If conditions begin deteriorating, getting off the water early is safer than trying to outrun a storm.

Bottom line

Saturday's crash is a tragic reminder that boating safety is disaster preparedness. On Tampa Bay, preparation means planning for more than good weather — it means being ready for the unexpected and having the equipment and knowledge needed to respond when seconds matter.

For boating safety information, requirements and education resources, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.