The Tragic Loss Of Dr. Karl Chen: 5 Unforgettable Facts About The Princeton Physician And Avid Fisherman

The community of Princeton, New Jersey, and the wider medical field are still reeling from the shocking and tragic loss of Dr. Karl Timothy Chen, a highly respected Internal Medicine specialist. His passing in a devastating boating accident on Barnegat Bay on August 24th has left a void in the lives of his family, friends, and the thousands of patients he served with compassion for nearly three decades. As of this current date, December 11, 2025, the details surrounding the incident serve as a somber reminder of a life cut short too soon. Dr. Chen was more than just a dedicated physician; he was a beloved figure known for his brilliant mind, commitment to patient care, and passion for life outside the hospital, particularly his love for fishing on the New Jersey coast. This article serves as a tribute, detailing the life, career, and circumstances of the tragic accident that claimed the life of the 56-year-old Princeton resident.

Dr. Karl Timothy Chen: A Life of Service and Compassion

Dr. Karl Timothy Chen, MD, was a cornerstone of primary care in Central New Jersey. His professional life was defined by an unwavering dedication to the health and well-being of his patients, earning him a reputation as both a brilliant and compassionate doctor. His busy practice was a testament to the trust and loyalty he built within the community.

• Full Name: Karl Timothy Chen, MD
• Age at Time of Death: 56 years old
• Residence: Princeton, New Jersey
• Medical Specialty: Internal Medicine Specialist (Primary Care for Adults)
• Years of Experience: Approximately 29 years (graduated medical school in 1996)
• Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine (Graduated 1996)
• Primary Practice Locations: East Brunswick, NJ, and New Brunswick, NJ
• Hospital Affiliations: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Hamilton, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH), and Saint Peter's HealthCare System (Saint Peter's University Hospital)
• Known For: Clinical expertise, compassionate bedside manner, and a very busy practice.
• Personal Interest: Avid fisherman and boating enthusiast.

The Tragic Barnegat Bay Boating Accident

The circumstances surrounding Dr. Chen's death are particularly heartbreaking, highlighting the sudden and unpredictable dangers of the open water. The incident occurred on a Sunday morning in August, a day when the respected physician was enjoying one of his favorite pastimes: boating and fishing.

The accident took place in the waters of Barnegat Bay, specifically near Little Egg Harbor Township, a popular area for New Jersey fishermen. According to reports from the New Jersey State Police, Dr. Chen and another passenger were on his boat when it struck a large wake. The force of the impact was severe enough to eject both men from the vessel into the water.

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Tragically, after the ejection, the boat did not stop. With no one at the helm, the vessel began to circle uncontrollably, a deadly phenomenon often referred to by maritime safety experts as the "circle of death." The out-of-control boat then fatally struck Dr. Chen, causing injuries from which he could not recover. The incident occurred just before 10 a.m. local time.

5 Key Facts About Dr. Karl Chen’s Enduring Legacy

Dr. Chen's legacy extends far beyond the tragic news of his death. His impact on the Central New Jersey healthcare landscape and his personal life are what truly define him. Here are five essential facts that encapsulate the life and career of Dr. Karl Timothy Chen.

1. He Was a Pillar of Internal Medicine in Central New Jersey

Dr. Chen’s specialty, Internal Medicine, meant he was the primary point of care for countless adults, managing complex health issues and providing preventative care. His affiliations with major institutions like Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Saint Peter's HealthCare System underscore his standing in the medical community. He maintained a very busy practice, a clear indication of the high demand for his services and the trust his patients placed in him.

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2. The "Circle of Death" Phenomenon Claimed His Life

The specific manner of his passing—being struck by his own unmanned vessel—brings attention to a critical boating safety issue. The "circle of death" occurs when the operator is thrown overboard, and the boat's engine, still running, causes the vessel to turn sharply and circle at high speed. This detail serves as a stark warning to all boating enthusiasts about the necessity of safety measures, such as wearing an engine cut-off switch lanyard.

3. He Was a St. George's University Alumnus

Dr. Chen completed his medical education at the renowned St. George's University School of Medicine, graduating in 1996. His nearly three decades of practice, beginning after his graduation, highlight a long and dedicated career path focused entirely on patient care. This educational background set the foundation for his expertise as a primary care physician.

4. His Compassion Was His Defining Trait

Patient testimonials and reports from friends consistently describe Dr. Chen as a "brilliant and compassionate doctor." In a field often criticized for its impersonal nature, Dr. Chen stood out for his genuine care and commitment to his patients' hardest times. This dedication to his family and his patients is the most powerful part of his legacy, moving beyond his professional title to his character as a man.

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5. He Was an Avid Fisherman and Princeton Resident

While his professional life was centered in New Brunswick and East Brunswick, Dr. Chen was a long-time resident of Princeton, New Jersey, and found his escape on the water. His passion for fishing and boating was well-known among his friends, who remember him as an avid angler. The fact that he was pursuing this beloved hobby when the tragedy occurred adds another layer of poignancy to his passing.

Topical Authority and Entities Related to Dr. Karl Chen

The life and death of Dr. Karl Chen are connected to numerous entities and locations that provide topical authority to his story. Key elements include the geography of the tragic event (Barnegat Bay, Little Egg Harbor Township, Ocean County, New Jersey Shore), the medical institutions he served (Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, Saint Peter's University Hospital), his medical specialty (Internal Medicine, primary care), and the law enforcement agency involved (New Jersey State Police).

The investigation into the boating accident was handled by the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau, which meticulously documented the incident details. The entire community, from the residents of Princeton to the staff at RWJUH, mourned the loss of this dedicated physician. Dr. Chen’s story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the lasting impact a single, dedicated doctor can have on thousands of lives in the tri-state area.