One Man Drowns, More Than 80 People Rescued From Ocean This Weekend

Posted

Volusia County, FL - Volusia County Beach Safety is reporting that a 43-year-old man is dead after he and another person got in some trouble in the water near Rockafeller Beach this afternoon. Lifeguards entered the water to find that man unconscious, took him to shore and live-saving efforts began. He was transported to the hospital, where he passed away.

The man's identity is being held at this time. Deputy Chief of Operations Aaron Jenkins said that the man was visiting from Tennessee. No information is available on the other person that was within the water.

The beautiful fall weather brought out the crowds and rough seas kept lifeguards and the rest of Volusia County Beach Safety members busy all weekend. Since Friday, 70 people have been rescued without incident. Jenkins said, " We cannot express enough the water is very dangerous at this time and anyone that enters the water should stay where they can firmly touch bottom at all times, and also swim near a lifeguard tower."

Lifeguard personnel also treated 3 other patients as near-drownings or exhausted bathers, 2 of which were transported to the hospital for further medical intervention.

Another problem being caused by the rough seas are the numerous washback sea turtles that have come in with the seaweed. Hundreds have been transferred to the Marine Science Center over the past week due to the surf conditions.

Captain Tammy Malphurs reminds everyone, if you find a washback sea turtle, DO NOT put it back in the ocean or standing water. Make sure it’s out of harm’s way and leave it on the sand, if possible. Provide shade if you can and before contacting Volusia Beach Safety at 386-239-6414, determine your location to the best of your ability. During off-hours, between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., call Sheriff’s Dispatch at 386-248-1777, extension 6.

Visit the Volusia Beaches app for up to date information regarding beach access ramps and many other things. You can follow Volusia County Beaches on Facebook and Twitter or visit  www.volusia.org/beach

featured