Search scaled back for swimmer who tried to rescue 2 off Tampa-area beach

Author: The Associated Press
Published: Updated:
Florida deputies are searching for the body of a good Samaritan who tried to rescue a father and son who drowned off a beach south of Tampa. (Credit: HCSO)

The search was scaled back Sunday for the body of a good Samaritan who tried to rescue a father and son who drowned off a beach south of Tampa.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office says the rescuer, identified as 27-year-old Kristoff Murray, was also caught by the current in Apollo Beach.

The sheriff’s office says the father was found dead late Friday, and the child, a toddler, was found and taken to a nearby hospital, where he died.

“Our hearts break for the father and son who lost their lives tonight,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The horrible sight led a selfless stranger to sacrifice his own life, in an attempt to save them.”

The names and ages of the father and son were not released.

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.