Prosper, Texas — What started as a dream family getaway quickly became a nightmare for the Slough family after a tragic boating accident in the Bahamas left 42-year-old Brent Slough fighting for his life.
The former Army Ranger, husband, and father of two is now in intensive care at a Miami hospital, after a boat plowed over him during a snorkeling session just minutes into their first day on vacation in Exuma.
A Vacation That Turned Tragic in Seconds
The family had flown out from DFW Airport to Exuma on Monday, eager for a 10-day tropical break. But while snorkeling just 20 feet from shore, Brent was struck by a speeding boat that came dangerously close to the beach.
“I saw this boat speeding so close to shore, and I was like, ‘What the hell?’” said Whitney Slough, his wife. “Then I saw Brent floating, bleeding.”
Brent, an experienced swimmer and military veteran, felt the collision instantly.
“I felt a thump thump… I thought, ‘Did I just get hit by a boat?’” he recalled.
The boat never stopped. Security footage showed the vessel speeding off while Brent floated in critical condition in the water.
A Life Saved by His Daughter and a Float
Despite the traumatic scene, it was the couple’s teenage daughter who rushed to her father’s aid, helping him stay afloat while help was summoned.
“His bottom was almost completely detached from his legs,” Whitney said. “There was so much blood.”
Doctors later confirmed Brent had suffered multiple compound leg fractures and deep lacerations. He was airlifted via a medical jet to a Miami hospital, where he continues to receive intensive care.
Search for the Boat Continues
Whitney has vowed to return to the Bahamas to find the people responsible for the hit-and-run.
“There’s a law — boats aren’t supposed to be within 200 feet of the shore,” she said. “Brent was just 20 feet out. They broke the law. And then they left him there to die.”
Authorities in the Bahamas have not commented publicly on the investigation. Whitney is now calling for greater urgency and accountability.
Rising Medical Costs and a Plea for Support
The Sloughs are now dealing with extensive medical bills, including an expensive private ambulance flight from Miami back to Dallas. Friends have set up a GoFundMe page to help the family with emergency expenses.
Brent’s survival, Whitney says, is nothing short of miraculous.
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“This was God getting us through, 100%,” she said tearfully. “But we’re not done fighting — for his health, for justice, and for our family.”
What Other Travelers Can Learn
“If there’s one thing I could say to anyone traveling out of the country: get travel medical insurance,” said Whitney. “We didn’t. And we never imagined something like this could happen.”
Have you had a travel emergency abroad? Or want to help the Slough family?
Share your thoughts, learn more, or help amplify their story at ridgecrestpact.org. Your voice can make a difference. Let’s hold those responsible accountable
