Teen dead and another rushed to hospital after horror jet ski crash at British harbour

A teenager has tragically died after a jet ski ride wet horribly wrong . The two teenagers reportedly collided into a pier while riding a jet ski which sparked a huge multi-agency rescue operation.

The tragedy unfolded around 4pm on Tuesday, April 22, when emergency services were alerted to a collision involving a jet ski in Shetland, . While enjoying a jet ski ride they pair got into difficulty and crashed into a pier in the Lerwick Harbour in Gremista.

Responding swiftly, the (RNLI) Lerwick lifeboat, coastguard rescue helicopter, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Scottish Ambulance Service, and Police all descended upon the scene.

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Police have now confirmed the heartbreaking news that an 18 year old man was declared dead at the location, and his family has been informed. A 17 year old boy is currently receiving medical attention in hospital. Investigations are underway as Police Scotland probes into the details of the incident, reports .

A spokesperson for Police Scotland reported: "Around 4pm on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, we were called to a report of a jet ski crashing into a pier at Gremista, Shetland. Emergency services attended and an 18-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. His family is aware. A 17-year-old male youth has been taken to hospital for treatment. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances."

An RNLI representative also commented on the response: "Lerwick lifeboat was tasked shortly after 4pm on Tuesday, April 22, to a multi-agency incident at Catch Pier in Lerwick. The RNLI lifeboat supported Lerwick Coastguard Rescue Team, a coastguard rescue helicopter, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Scottish Ambulance Service and Police Scotland."

On Wednesday, April 2, 2025 The RNLI released its rescue figures for 2024, revealing its lifeboat crews and lifeguards saved a total of 437 lives last year – more than one life saved for every day of the year. Across the UK and Ireland the charity’s lifeboats were launched 9,141 times, making it the lifesaving charity’s fourth-busiest year on record.

The RNLI stress that 'no matter how experienced you are, taking a few minutes to understand the risks could save your life.' The charity offers an abundance of safety advice and guidance for beachgoers to stay safe both in and out of the water.

Modern jet skis can reach speeds in excess of 60mph, in the blink of an eye so knowing what to do in situations where your safety could be at risk is key before taking to the seas.

From surfing to coastal walking the RNLI has tips for anyone enjoying the British coast to stay safe, to find out more