When you think of Marine Biology, underwater archaeology, and other scholarly pursuits that take place below the surface, diving accidents might be the last think that comes to mind. Unfortunately, divers working underwater in the name of science are at risk, just as sports divers, underwater photographers, and others are. Here, we’ll take a look at an accident that took place during a 2008 training dive, along with a subsequent case charging Washington’s Walla-Walla University and other entities with responsibility in the case.
The Case of Shari Booth
Shari Booth was full of promise. A freshman majoring in Biology at Walla-Walla University, she was on a three-day trip to Rosario Beach Marine Laboratory, which is located near Anacortes and Deception Pass. During a research dive on May 19th of 2008, she failed to surface. Though other divers and search crews looked for her body, it was never recovered. Now, Booth’s family members state that the University and other defendants in the case were grossly negligent, stating they “demonstrated reckless regard” for her safety.
Additional defendants listed in the suit are the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), Booth’s instructor, Gene Bruns, and two dive companies, College Divers and Under Sea Adventures, Incorporated. Bruns is listed as an owner of both dive companies. The lawsuit alleges that the materials and training methods used in the open water course were deficient in “their creation, promulgation, and application.” In addition, the plaintiffs are claiming that Booth was not properly instructed in the use of dive equipment, that she was not appropriately screened, and that she was not adequately prepared to dive.
At the time Shari Booth disappeared, the advanced dive class was taking one of six required dives. Booth and her dive buddy were with a larger group of novice divers. The dive location is known for its cold temperatures and strong currents.
The investigation that followed showed that Shari Booth and her fellow students were diving at a depth of approximately 40 meters, and that the instructor was not in the water when the accident happened. Shari Booth’s dive buddy was pulled from the water, and though the dive instructor admitted seeing Shari’s bubble trail, heading in a different direction, he did not go after her.
The U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Navy aided in the search efforts for Shari, and after two days, as weather conditions deteriorated, the search was suspended when no sign of her was discovered.
Though the final outcome in this case has yet to be determined, it is difficult to say exactly what caused Shari Booth to disappear that day. Part of the problem lies in the fact that she was alone underwater after her dive buddy was pulled up, so no one can say for certain what happened as there was no witness to her final moments. What is clear is that there was no dive master or instructor available to this young diver when it is evident she needed help most. Regardless of the reason for this, it is a tragedy – one that might never be fully explained.