Press Release
By City of Fernandina Beach
6/7/25
At approximately 11:52 AM on June 7, 2025, Fernandina Beach Ocean Rescue lifeguards
assigned to Tower 8 were flagged down by beachgoers reporting a child in distress in the
ocean just north of Seaside Park. The incident occurred approximately 140 yards north of
the lifeguard tower in approximately 2-3 feet of water. There was no rip currents noted in
the area and lifeguards were flying yellow flags.
Lifeguards immediately responded and arrived at the child’s side within moments. The 5
year-old had been pulled from the water by bystanders prior to lifeguards’ arrival. Ocean
Rescue personnel initiated immediate CPR and life-saving interventions.
Fernandina Beach Fire Department units arrived shortly thereafter, upon arrival the
patient had a pulse, fire personnel assumed patient care and continued advanced
resuscitation efforts. The child was transported from the beach and transferred to a
waiting rescue unit staged in the parking lot of Seaside Park.
Despite the combined efforts of bystanders, first responders, and medical staff, the child
later went into cardiac arrest again at the hospital and could not be revived.
Our thoughts are with the child’s family during this tragic time, and we are grateful for the
quick actions of the bystanders, and for the rapid response and professionalism of our
Ocean Rescue and Fire Department personnel.
A critical incident stress debriefing and peer support team was called in to provide support
for effected Ocean Rescue and Fire Department Personnel.
