MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – What began as a heroic rescue turned into a tragedy Saturday after emergency crews recovered the body of a swimmer who disappeared while saving a young girl from a powerful rip current off the coast of Myrtle Beach.
According to the Myrtle Beach Police Department, the incident unfolded around 8 p.m. Friday near 10th Avenue South, after lifeguards had gone off duty for the evening.
Police said a young girl became caught in a rip current, prompting another swimmer to enter the water in an attempt to rescue her.
Swimmer saved child before disappearing beneath the waves
Authorities said the rescuer successfully brought the girl to safety but was then overtaken by the same rip current and disappeared beneath the surface.
Emergency crews from the Myrtle Beach Police Department and Myrtle Beach Fire Department launched an extensive search Friday night before resuming operations Saturday morning.
In an update issued Saturday afternoon, police confirmed the search had come to a heartbreaking end.
“The body of the missing swimmer washed ashore this morning and was recovered,” the department said.
Officials have not released the identity, age, or hometown of the deceased swimmer pending notification of family members.
Rip currents remain one of the deadliest beach hazards
Rip currents are among the leading causes of surf rescues along the Atlantic coast, capable of pulling even experienced swimmers away from shore in a matter of seconds. Public safety officials routinely urge beachgoers to swim near lifeguards during operating hours and to avoid entering the water when beaches are unguarded.
The incident occurred after lifeguards had ended their shifts for the day, highlighting the added dangers of swimming during evening hours when rescue personnel are no longer stationed on the beach.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department has not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Key Points
- A swimmer who rescued a young girl from a rip current was found dead Saturday morning.
- The incident occurred Friday evening near 10th Avenue South after lifeguards had gone off duty.
- Myrtle Beach police and fire crews conducted an overnight search before recovering the victim.
FAQ
- When did the incident happen?
Around 8 p.m. Friday near 10th Avenue South. - What happened?
A swimmer rescued a young girl caught in a rip current but was then pulled underwater. - Was the swimmer found?
Yes. Authorities recovered the body Saturday morning. - Has the victim been identified?
No. Police have not released the victim’s identity. - Why are rip currents dangerous?
Rip currents can quickly pull swimmers away from shore and are among the leading causes of surf rescues and drownings.
Source: Myrtle Beach Police Department, Myrtle Beach Police Department Facebook post
