A man died after rushing into the waters of San Francisco’s Ocean Beach to rescue a dog on Thursday, according to fire officials.
The victim, who has not yet been identified, was recovered from the water and later pronounced dead.
Newsweek has contacted the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) for comment outside of regular hours.
Stock photo. A man died after rushing into the waters of San Francisco’s Ocean Beach to rescue his dog on Thursday. Stock photo. A man died after rushing into the waters of San Francisco’s Ocean Beach to rescue his dog on Thursday. Soeren Stache/dpa via AP
Why It Matters
Ocean Beach is known for its powerful rip currents and dangerous conditions, even during calm weather. Authorities regularly warn beachgoers against entering the water due to the risk of drowning.
Glenn Kircher, battalion chief at the SFFD, told local news outlet KTVU previously: “This is one of the most dangerous beaches probably in all of the state of California. There’s incredible tidal changes in terms of movement and because of the currents here.”
The incident highlights the dangers faced by people attempting to save animals from hazardous environments.
What to Know
The SFFD said that emergency personnel received reports on Thursday afternoon that a fully clothed man had entered the surf line at Ocean Beach to rescue a dog, before he collapsed for an “unknown reason.”
It said that two women entered the water and “affected a successful rescue of this male,” before calling 911 while providing life-saving measures.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area Ocean Rescue arrived on the scene two minutes after the dispatch and initiated CPR on the man.
SFFD personnel and San Francisco Fire Paramedics arrived after four minutes and initiated advanced life support measures, before transporting the man to a local hospital.
The man was reported to be in a “critical condition” as he was transported to hospital, but later died of his injuries.
The dog involved in the incident exited the water by itself and was unharmed.
What People Are Saying
The San Francisco Fire Department wrote on X on Thursday: “We are saddened to report that this adult male succumbed to his injuries. The dog this man rescued was able to exit the water independently and is OK. This is an unfortunate reminder not to enter the water for humans or pets but rather, to call 911.”
What Happens Next
Authorities have not yet announced plans for a formal investigation beyond routine coroner procedures.
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