A distressing incident unfolded at Milnerton Lagoon Beach, resulting in one person losing their life and another fighting for survival after being caught in rip currents, as confirmed by the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).
The NSRI spokesperson, Craig Lambinon, reported that just before 2 pm on Monday, the NSRI Melkbosstrand duty crew and the City of Cape Town’s (CoCT) water rescue network were activated following eyewitness reports of a drowning in progress.
According to Lambinon, local residents heard cries for help and rushed to the beach upon discovering two men caught in rip currents. A resident utilized an NSRI pink rescue buoy stationed at the beach to rescue both men. Unfortunately, one man, aged 25, collapsed unconscious, while the other, aged 30, appeared to be in serious condition. Both individuals are from Zimbabwe.
Lifeguards from the Milnerton Surf Lifesaving Club arrived at the scene and initiated medical treatment for both men. Despite efforts to resuscitate the 25-year-old man, he was declared deceased. The body was taken into the care of the police and government health Forensic Pathology Services.
The 30-year-old man, in critical condition, was transported to the hospital by an ER24 ambulance. Condolences were extended to the family and friends of the deceased.
Lambinon highlighted that family and friends received counseling from Fire and Rescue Services counselors, assisted by lifeguards, police, and the Milnerton Surf Lifesaving Club. An inquest docket has been opened by the police.
It appears that a group of friends had been at the beach since mid-morning when the two men were caught in rip currents while swimming. NSRI, lifeguards, police, and the combined emergency services urge bathers to only swim at beaches protected by lifeguards.
Lambinon commended local residents for their swift reaction, acknowledging the sad outcome, and expressed thoughts for the survivor at the hospital where medical professionals are working diligently to save his life.