HARPSWELL, Maine — An investigation is underway into a recreational boating fatality that happened Friday near South Harpswell.
The incident happened at about 7:50 p.m., the Maine Department of Marine Resources said in a news release.
Marine patrol reports indicate 23-year-old Samuel Sharpe of Harpswell fell from a 19-foot center console boat while he was operating it near South Harpswell, the department said.
"Based on observations of his injuries, Sharpe appeared to have been struck by the boat's propeller," the release stated.
Marine officials said good Samaritans who witnessed the incident pulled Sharpe from the water and brought him to shore at Potts Point Landing in South Harpswell.
Harpswell Fire and Rescue personnel attempted lifesaving measures but were unsuccessful. Officials said Sharpe died from his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was taken to a local funeral home, where the chief medical examiner's office would examine it.
Sharpe's boat was secured by the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Harpswell harbormaster brought it to shore.
The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office assisted with the incident, and the Maine Marine Patrol is investigating.