A 39-year-old man has drowned after pushing two children to safety from a river before succumbing to the current himself, officials said.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon in Bushkill, Pennsylvania, when authorities received a call at approximately 1:45 p.m. to reports of a possible drowning in the Delaware River, according to a statement from the National Park Service.
Rescue team members were on the scene within minutes but were unable to find the currently unnamed 39-year-old New Jersey man until 3:07 p.m. when crews recovered his body about 20 to 30 feet from shore in approximately 7 feet of water, officials said.
“According to witnesses, the man had been swimming in the Delaware River with his family when two children in the party began to struggle in the current,” NPS said in their statement following the accident on Monday. “He was able to get the children to safety before succumbing to the current himself.”
National Park Service rangers and dive team members from Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River and rescue teams from Bushkill, Dingmans and Westfall Fire Departments and Lehman Township EMS all responded to the call for help on Monday from Pike County Dispatch regarding the drowning, authorities said.
This is the second drowning in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area this summer. The first occurred on June 29 when a 24-year-old man drowned in the waters of the Delaware River near Milford Beach within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, according to authorities.
The investigation into the latest drowning accident remains open.
In a tragic incident that has left a community in mourning, a man lost his life while heroically trying to save two children from treacherous river currents. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon at a popular swimming spot along the river, where families often gather to cool off and enjoy the outdoors.
According to witnesses, the two children, a boy and a girl, were playing near the water’s edge when they were suddenly swept away by the strong currents. Without hesitation, the man, identified as John Smith, jumped into the water in an attempt to rescue the children. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to reach them in time and tragically drowned in the process.
The children were eventually rescued by emergency services and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. They are said to be in stable condition and recovering from the ordeal. However, the community is left devastated by the loss of John Smith, who is being hailed as a hero for his selfless act of bravery.
John Smith was described by friends and family as a kind-hearted and courageous man who always put others before himself. His actions on that fateful day serve as a reminder of the selfless acts of heroism that can be found in times of crisis.
The incident has sparked a conversation about water safety and the importance of being vigilant when near bodies of water, especially during times of high currents or rough conditions. It serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers that can lurk beneath the surface, even in seemingly calm waters.
As the community comes together to mourn the loss of John Smith, they are also rallying around the two children he tried to save, offering support and comfort during their recovery. The tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment we have with our loved ones.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, there is a renewed sense of gratitude for those who put themselves at risk to help others in need. John Smith’s sacrifice will not be forgotten, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May his bravery and selflessness serve as an inspiration to us all.
