Dad Drowns Saving Children
A Florida father is being hailed as a hero after tragically losing his life while rescuing his two children from treacherous ocean conditions in Fort Lauderdale. The incident unfolded on Monday afternoon, turning a seemingly ordinary day at the beach into a heartbreaking tragedy.
The man has been identified as Antwon Wilson, 33, of Lauderhill, Florida. According to officials with Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, Wilson noticed his children were struggling in the water while swimming off the beach near the 800 block of Seabreeze Boulevard — a popular area just south of Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. Without hesitation, he rushed into the surf to bring them to safety.
A Father’s Heroic Final Moments
According to eyewitnesses and first responders, the two children, both under the age of 10, had waded into deeper waters when they were caught in a strong current. As they began to panic, Wilson immediately sprang into action, swimming out to reach them despite choppy waters and increasingly dangerous conditions.
Bystanders reported that Wilson managed to successfully grab both children and push them back toward shore, where lifeguards and nearby beachgoers assisted in pulling them out of the surf. However, Wilson appeared to be in distress himself shortly afterward.
“Once the kids were out of the water, he was still in trouble,” said one witness who asked not to be named. “You could see he was exhausted and struggling. He just didn’t have the strength left.”
Emergency Response
Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue received a 911 call just after 2:15 p.m. reporting a swimmer in distress. When emergency responders arrived, they quickly located Wilson floating face-down in the water. He was pulled to shore and CPR was immediately administered.
Wilson was transported by ambulance to Broward Health Medical Center, where doctors worked tirelessly to revive him. Despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Dangerous Conditions
Officials believe ocean conditions on Monday played a significant role in the incident. The National Weather Service had issued an advisory earlier in the day warning of rip currents along parts of the southeastern Florida coastline. A yellow flag was reportedly flying at the beach, signaling moderate surf and potential hazards.
“These kinds of rescues are always incredibly dangerous, especially when rip currents are involved,” said Battalion Chief Stephen Gollan of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue. “Mr. Wilson displayed extraordinary courage and selflessness. He died saving his children, and his actions will be remembered as heroic.”
Remembering Antwon Wilson
In the wake of the tragedy, friends, family, and community members are mourning the loss of a man they describe as a devoted father and a kind, hardworking individual. Wilson, a resident of Lauderhill, worked full-time and spent his weekends with his children. Social media has been flooded with tributes praising his bravery and love for his family.
“Antwon was always there for his kids,” said longtime friend Marcus Bell. “He didn’t hesitate when he saw they needed him. That’s the kind of man he was — always putting his family first.”
A small memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes has formed near the site of the incident, where beachgoers now pause to pay their respects. A GoFundMe campaign launched by friends of the family has already raised thousands of dollars to help support Wilson’s children and cover funeral expenses.
A Community Mourns, and Reflects
This tragic event has reignited conversations about beach safety and the risks of swimming in open water, particularly for families unfamiliar with the dangers of rip currents and shifting tides.
Authorities are urging all beach visitors to heed warning flags, listen to lifeguards, and be cautious, especially during summer months when beaches are more crowded and currents more unpredictable.
“In a matter of seconds, a fun day at the beach can turn deadly,” said Officer Casey Liening of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. “We want everyone to enjoy the ocean safely, and that starts with awareness.”
While officials continue their investigation, they have confirmed that no foul play is suspected and have ruled Wilson’s death as accidental.
Final Thoughts
Antwon Wilson’s final act — risking and ultimately giving his life to save his children — has left a deep impression on the Fort Lauderdale community. His legacy will live on in the lives of the two children he saved, and in the hearts of all who now call him a hero.
“He did what any father would dream they could do — he saved his kids,” said family member Tanya Wilson. “He just paid the ultimate price. And we’ll never forget him for that.”
The family has asked for privacy as they grieve, but expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they’ve received. A public memorial is being planned for later this week.
