A firefighter from New York City lost his life on Friday while attempting to rescue his distressed daughter who was swimming at a beach in New Jersey, according to authorities.
Mark Batista, a 39-year-old FDNY firefighter from Teaneck, New Jersey, tragically passed away on Friday morning, CBS News reported.
According to the station, Batista entered the waters at Sylvania Avenue beach in Avon-by-the-Sea to aid his 15-year-old daughter. The circumstances that led to her needing assistance near a jetty remain unclear at this time.
The girl was successfully rescued from the water by first responders who were alerted by witnesses. She taken to the hospital and is expected to recover from the incident.
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However, it took until around 10 a.m. for Batista’s body to be located approximately 50 feet (15 meters) from the shoreline.
Emergency responders made valiant efforts to save Batista’s life before he was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, where he sadly succumbed to his injuries.
CBS News further noted that lifeguards were not scheduled to begin their duty at the beach until June 17, highlighting the absence of immediate professional assistance during this tragic event.
