FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — A Father’s Final Act of Love Ends in Tragedy on Father’s Day
What was meant to be a joyful day on the beach turned into a heartbreaking tragedy when 33-year-old Antwon Wilson of Lauderhill lost his life while saving his daughter from drowning in the waters off Fort Lauderdale Beach on Father’s Day
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According to Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, the incident occurred Sunday evening around 7:20 p.m., near the B Ocean Resort along Seabreeze Boulevard. Wilson and his family were enjoying the ocean when two of his children became caught in a current and began struggling.
Without hesitation, Wilson entered the water and reached his daughter, managing to keep her afloat amid the rough conditions. But as he focused on her safety, he himself was pulled under.
“She was in the water with multiple other family members,” explained FLFR Battalion Chief Danny Moran. “The father was nearby and able to make it to her and help keep her afloat before he went under.”
Lifeguards and Good Samaritan Rush to Help
Although lifeguards had officially ended their shift just 20 minutes earlier, several were still nearby packing up their gear. Their presence at that critical moment made a life-saving difference. They quickly responded, turning their trucks around and becoming the first on scene.
In addition to the lifeguards, a good Samaritan also jumped into the water to help. He, too, faced danger and was briefly pulled under before managing to escape the surf and return to shore.
Lifeguards were able to reach the child and bring her safely back to land, but by then, Wilson had disappeared beneath the waves.
A Desperate Search and Heartbreaking Outcome
A search effort was immediately launched, and Wilson was soon located underwater. He was pulled to shore, where paramedics performed CPR before transporting him, along with his daughter and the good Samaritan, to Broward Health Medical Center.
Despite the efforts of first responders and hospital staff, Wilson was pronounced dead later that evening.
The young girl and the good Samaritan were both hospitalized but are expected to recover. Officials said the girl was responsive and stable, thanks to her father’s quick and selfless actions.
“We had a lot of good intel because both she and her father called 911 during the incident,” said Trooper Moran. “She was able to communicate just enough to help rescuers understand what was happening. It was a chaotic, heartbreaking situation.”
A Hero Remembered
Wilson’s death has sent shockwaves through his community. Friends, family, and strangers alike are calling him a true hero — a father whose final act was one of pure, selfless love.
“Antwon died doing what fathers do — protecting his child,” said a close family friend. “He was always putting his kids first. He didn’t hesitate. He gave his life so she could live.”
Social media has been flooded with tributes to Wilson. Photos and memories shared by loved ones paint the picture of a dedicated father, beloved son, and loyal friend with a big heart and infectious smile.
A GoFundMe page has been created to help support Wilson’s children and cover funeral expenses. Community members are also organizing a candlelight vigil to honor his life and legacy.
A Tragic Reminder
This devastating incident also serves as a reminder of the dangers that can arise, even on a calm day at the beach. Officials urge beachgoers to always swim in areas monitored by lifeguards, to pay attention to ocean conditions, and to keep young children within arm’s reach at all times.
Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue emphasized that currents can shift quickly and that accidents like these can happen in mere seconds.
A Father’s Legacy
On a day meant to celebrate fatherhood, Antwon Wilson showed the true meaning of the word “father.” His bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
His daughter will carry his memory for the rest of her life — a life made possible by her father’s final, heroic act.
Rest in peace, Antwon Wilson. Your love lives on.
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