PACIFIC GROVE / MONTEREY, CA — Local Diving Community Mourns the Loss of James Vincent, 36, Following Tragic Plane Crash

PACIFIC GROVE / MONTEREY, CA — Local Diving Community Mourns the Loss of James Vincent, 36, Following Tragic Plane Crash

PACIFIC GROVE, CA — A deep wave of sorrow has swept across the Monterey Peninsula, particularly within its close-knit diving and marine communities, following the tragic death of James Vincent, 36, a beloved co-owner of Aquarius Dive Shop on Del Monte Avenue in Monterey. Vincent’s life was confirmed lost after a private plane he was aboard crashed into the waters just offshore of Pacific Grove late Saturday evening, July 26, 2025.

The small aircraft, a single-engine Piper Malibu, went down shortly after 7:15 p.m., roughly one mile off Point Pinos. The plane had reportedly departed earlier from a private airstrip in Central California and was en route to the Monterey Peninsula Airport when it experienced an unexplained mechanical failure. Witnesses along the Pacific Grove coast say they saw the aircraft sputter before sharply descending toward the ocean. Emergency response teams from the U.S. Coast Guard, local fire departments, and Monterey County Sheriff’s Office responded swiftly, but the crash site’s location and conditions proved difficult for immediate rescue.

The following morning, divers and recovery teams confirmed the worst. Among the passengers, James Vincent was found and identified. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A second occupant, whose identity has not yet been officially released, is currently unaccounted for, and recovery efforts are ongoing.

A Leader in the Diving World and Local Marine Education

For many in Monterey and beyond, James Vincent was more than a business owner—he was a marine advocate, mentor, and friend. As co-owner of Aquarius Dive Shop, he helped turn the local business into a hub for divers from across California and the nation. Known for his gentle demeanor, vast knowledge of underwater ecosystems, and passion for community education, Vincent spent much of his time teaching, guiding excursions, and advocating for ocean conservation.

“James was the heartbeat of this dive shop and the spirit behind much of our outreach work,” said Claire Ramirez, a longtime instructor and colleague at Aquarius. “He believed the ocean was a place of healing and wonder, and he made it accessible to everyone—whether you were a seasoned diver or stepping into fins for the first time.”

Vincent played a key role in several local marine programs, including the Monterey Bay Sea Camp, NOAA-sponsored ocean safety initiatives, and kelp forest preservation efforts. He often collaborated with the Monterey Bay Aquarium and local universities to support marine science students and underwater research projects.

His dedication extended well beyond the commercial side of diving. In recent years, Vincent had become an outspoken voice for climate change awareness, leading beach cleanup dives, speaking at ocean conservation forums, and working to protect local marine sanctuaries. He also spearheaded scholarships for underrepresented youth interested in marine careers, saying in a 2023 interview, “The ocean belongs to everyone, and we need everyone to help care for it.”

A Personal Loss Felt Deeply

Originally from San Luis Obispo, James moved to Monterey in his early twenties to study marine biology at California State University, Monterey Bay. He quickly fell in love with the area’s rugged coastline, abundant marine life, and tight-knit diving scene. Friends recall his warmth, curiosity, and tireless work ethic.

“He was just magnetic,” said Trevor Wu, a friend and fellow diver. “He could talk coral taxonomy and wetsuit fittings in the same breath and make you laugh doing it. His presence was like a lighthouse for so many of us.”

In his spare time, Vincent enjoyed photography, free diving, and volunteering for ocean rescue missions. He was also known for his dog, Kona, who accompanied him daily to the dive shop and on many of his boat outings.

James is survived by his sister, Melanie Vincent of Santa Cruz, and his parents, Linda and Thomas Vincent, who released a brief statement Sunday afternoon: “James brought light and purpose to so many lives. We are heartbroken, but proud of the impact he made in his 36 years. He lived fully and with compassion. We thank the community for the outpouring of love and ask for privacy as we grieve.”

Community Response and Memorial Plans

Since the announcement of his passing, the Monterey diving community has rallied in remembrance. A memorial wreath was placed at the entrance of Aquarius Dive Shop, where candles, handwritten notes, and photos now line the storefront. Local divers organized a “dive of silence” Sunday morning in honor of James, descending into the kelp forests off Breakwater Cove, where he often led tours and taught certification classes.

Aquarius Dive Shop will be temporarily closed, though staff say they plan to reopen soon with Vincent’s vision and values at the forefront. A public memorial service is being planned for the first week of August, with details to be announced on the shop’s website and social media.

“This isn’t just a loss for us here in Monterey,” said marine biologist and longtime friend Dr. Serena Leong. “James was a bridge between science, adventure, and conservation. His legacy will live on in the waters he loved, and in every young diver he inspired.”

Investigation into the Crash

Federal aviation authorities and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are actively investigating the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest a possible engine malfunction, but no conclusions have been released. Recovery of the wreckage remains ongoing, and weather conditions and ocean currents have posed challenges.

The FAA and NTSB are expected to release an initial assessment within the next two weeks. Local officials and rescue teams continue to search for the missing second occupant, and the Vincent family has asked for prayers and support during this difficult time.

An Enduring Legacy

James Vincent’s death leaves a painful void in the hearts of many—but his life remains a powerful testament to the difference one individual can make. His passion for the ocean, dedication to education, and unwavering generosity will continue to shape the waters and community he called home.

In the words of a message left at the dive shop’s memorial: “You taught us how to breathe underwater—but you also taught us how to live above it. Thank you, James.”

In honor of James Vincent, the family has asked that donations be made to the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary Foundation or the “Dive into the Future” Scholarship Fund, soon to be established in his name.