A man tragically lost his life on Father's Day as he attempted to save his daughter from the powerful waves at Fort Lauderdale's B Ocean hotel beachfront. The local police confirmed the heartbreaking event on Monday.
The incident unfolded around 7:20 p.m. in the bustling Seabreeze Boulevard area, just twenty minutes after Ocean Rescue lifeguards had ended their shift. As they were leaving, a 911 call about a child struggling in the surf came over the radio.
The father, identified as 33-year-old Antwon Wilson from Lauderhill, immediately plunged into the ocean to rescue his daughter. Another adult, a good Samaritan, also entered the water to assist.
According to Fort Lauderdale Battalion Fire Chief Danny Moran, Wilson managed to reach his daughter and keep her afloat long enough for rescuers to intervene. The lifeguards quickly returned and entered the water, successfully pulling the young girl to safety. Unfortunately, Wilson vanished beneath the waves.
He was discovered minutes later and brought ashore, where paramedics attempted to revive him but were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead shortly after at Broward Health Medical Center.
The girl was taken to the hospital along with Eslam Saad, the good Samaritan who assisted in the rescue. Saad was spending the day with his own family when he heard the commotion. "People were shouting, 'Help, help!'" he told local media, recounting his decision to act without hesitation. "I just jumped in," he said.
"I didn't think about anything. I didn't even tell my wife I was going back into the water. I tried to swim, tried to bring her closer to shore. I think I did everything I could," he added.
Upon reaching the girl, he attempted to soothe her. "I told her, 'Please, I know you're panicking. Please don't do anything crazy. I'll do my best to get you out.'" Saad eventually guided her to a safer area, where rescuers took over. Amid the chaos, Wilson had disappeared.
"Once I was in the hospital and they ensured I was okay, I asked about them, and they told me her father was already gone," Saad recounted, visibly shaken. He was discharged the following day and expressed no regrets despite the trauma. "I'm proud of myself and would do it again regardless of the outcome," he affirmed.
Wilson's family deeply appreciated Saad's bravery. Authorities are urging beachgoers to exercise extra caution as summer approaches, and the influx of visitors to Florida's beaches increases.
Frequently Asked Questions about Beach Safety and Drowning Incidents
What should I do if I see someone struggling in the water?
If you see someone struggling in the water, immediately call for help and alert a lifeguard if available. Attempt a rescue only if you are trained and it is safe to do so.
How can I stay safe while swimming at the beach?
To stay safe, swim near lifeguards, never swim alone, be aware of currents and tides, and heed warning flags and signs. Always supervise children closely.
Why is it important to heed lifeguard warnings?
Lifeguard warnings are based on current conditions and safety protocols. Ignoring them can lead to dangerous situations, as lifeguards are trained to recognize hazards not always visible to the public.