On Saturday, March 15, a tragic incident unfolded at Glenashley Beach in Durban North when an adult man and woman were caught in rough sea conditions during the Spring high tide.

Despite swift and heroic efforts by bystanders and emergency services, the man lost his life, while the woman survived unharmed.

The incident occurred at approximately 6:15 pm when the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Durban and Umhlanga stations, along with the KZN Surf Rescue Network, were alerted to a possible drowning in progress.

Reports indicated that the two individuals, believed to be locals, were struggling in heavy, rough seas.

Multiple emergency services, including NSRI rescue swimmers, eThekwini Surf lifeguards, Netcare 911 ambulance services, ALS Paramedics, Marshall Security Services, the South African Police Services (SAPS), and eThekwini Fire and Rescue Services, rushed to the scene.

As responders were on route, it was reported that the woman had been washed ashore by a large wave.

She was found safe and appeared to have no injuries.

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However, the man remained trapped in the surf zone, battling strong currents approximately 10 to 15 meters offshore.

In a remarkable display of bravery, three good Samaritans entered the water to help the man.

One of the rescuers was equipped with an NSRI pink rescue buoy.

Together, the group managed to bring the man to shore, where CPR was immediately initiated by one of the rescuers, who is believed to be a doctor.

Despite the quick response and ongoing CPR efforts by paramedics, who provided advanced life support upon arrival, the man could not be revived.

He was declared deceased at the scene.

His body has been taken into the care of the SAPS and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.

The surviving woman, who is believed to be related to the deceased man, was assisted by a Victim Support trauma counsellor.

Police have opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The NSRI commended the bystanders who raised the alarm and the good Samaritans who risked their own safety to attempt the rescue.

IOL News