Massachusetts father of 4 drowns while trying to rescue son caught in rip current
SALISBURY, Mass. (WLNE) — A Massachusetts man died after he tried to save his son who was caught in a rip current at Salisbury Beach, WCVB-TV reports.
Gary Simard, 44, was at the beach with his family on Wednesday after they extended their vacation for the sunny weather.
His longtime partner, Alexis Wornski, said they were supposed to be packing to go home to Methuen, but wanted to go for one more swim.
One of their children was pulled away by a strong current and began to struggle to stay above the water. Witnesses saw Simard run in after him and begin to struggle himself.
Good Samaritans were able to rescue the boy, but they could not find Simard.
“He died as a superhero,” she said. “He saved my baby. I just can’t believe it.”
Salisbury police and fire crews later found Simard in the ocean.
Paramedics took over and tried to revive him before he was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he died.
“I know if he had the opportunity to save his son, he would do it again,” Wornski said. “He was always a superhero to them.”
“He is just a solid, strong person and I’m forever grateful for his sacrifice,” she said.
One of the people who helped save the child was also taken to the hospital after they were having trouble breathing and feeling exhausted.
A GoFundMe was set up to help the family cover Simard’s funeral expenses.
