AUGUST SPEAKER: A Deep Dive into Diving Fatalities
Dr. Craig nelson - science behind diving fatality investigations
Dr. Craig Nelson
This program offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the science of diving fatality investigations and provides valuable knowledge for every diver committed to making the sport safer.
Join SFDI Wednesday, August 5 for an Extraordinary Evening with Dr. Craig Nelson.
What really happens when a diving fatality is investigated? When news of a diving accident spreads, online discussion forums quickly fill with rumors, speculation, and theories—but they rarely provide the facts.
Our club is honored to welcome Dr. Craig Nelson, a long-time diver and forensic pathologist in Raleigh, North Carolina. He will take us beyond the rumors and into the science behind diving fatality investigations.
In this presentation, Dr. Craig Nelson will explain how diving fatalities are investigated, how forensic pathologists determine the cause and contributing factors of a fatal dive, and how those findings are used to improve diver safety. Drawing on his unique background as both an accomplished diver and practicing forensic pathologist, he will share real-world insights into accident investigation, the role of the medical examiner, and how lessons learned from these tragedies contribute to safer diving through the work of Divers Alert Network (DAN).
Dr. Craig Nelson - Deep Dive on accident investigation
Dr. Craig Nelson
ABOUT Dr. Craig Nelson
Dr. Craig Nelson is a practicing forensic pathologist with the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Raleigh. His career represents a rare combination of elite diving experience and forensic medical expertise, making him uniquely qualified to interpret the circumstances surrounding diving fatalities and the lessons they hold for improving diver safety.
A lifelong diver, Dr. Nelson was first certified in 1989 and became a diving instructor in 1996. That same year, he earned the prestigious Rolex Our World-Underwater Scholarship, spending the following year traveling the world exploring professional careers in diving. His work with Lifeguard Systems in New York teaching underwater body recovery and water rescue ultimately inspired his pursuit of forensic pathology.
After earning his medical degree from Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Dr. Nelson completed his pathology residency at the University of Arizona and a fellowship in forensic pathology at the San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office. Following more than five years as a Deputy Medical Examiner in San Diego, he returned to North Carolina in 2014, where he continues to serve as a forensic pathologist.
Throughout his medical career, Dr. Nelson has remained active in the diving community as a member of public safety dive teams, combining his passion for diving with his forensic expertise. His work has also included conducting diving fatality reviews for Divers Alert Network (DAN), helping advance diver safety through careful scientific investigation and analysis.
