In a tragic incident on Salisbury Beach, a father’s instinctive act of bravery turned fatal as he attempted to rescue his son from a perilous rip current.
Gary Simard, a 44-year-old Massachusetts father of four, sadly passed away on Wednesday while spending an enjoyable day with his family at the beach, PEOPLE reports.
Simard was reportedly enjoying a family outing at Salisbury Beach when a rip current forcibly dragged his son away. Despite the escalating danger, Simard unselfishly entered the water in a heroic attempt to rescue his son.
Eyewitnesses, including Robin DiNatale who promptly called 911, recounted the harrowing moments when Simard struggled amidst the waves and subsequently screamed for help, according to reports by CBS affiliate WBZ-TV and ABC affiliate WCVB-TV.
The perilous current prompted two bystanders to rush to the aid of the struggling child, succeeding in bringing him safely ashore. But the doting father soon started screaming for help himself.
However, Simard became difficult to reach and soon disappeared, prompting an intensive search by police and firefighters in the 266 North End Boulevard area. Upon location, desperate attempts were made to resuscitate Simard through CPR before he was rushed to the Seabrook Emergency Room, where he was sadly declared dead.
The Simard family had been vacationing at a rented beach house at the time of the unfortunate incident. Simard’s longtime partner, Alexis Wornski, is left grappling with the tragic loss but remains "forever grateful for his sacrifice". Speaking to WCVB-TV, she commemorated Simard, saying he "died a superhero" trying to save their "baby".
"He would do it again," Wornski solemnly declared, emphasizing his unwavering resolve to protect his family.
The bravery exhibited by Simard has also been remembered in a message on a GoFundMe campaign initiated by his sister to alleviate the funeral expenses and to support the needs of Simard’s grieving family. "Gary truly was a hero who not only dedicated his life to his children but literally gave his life for them," the heartfelt message read, underlining Simard’s deep-rooted family values.
As of Monday morning, a wave of community support has seen contributions exceeding $59,000, reflecting the outpouring of respect and support for the bereaved family.
The Essex County District Attorney's Office has not immediately commented on the incident.
Our thoughts go out to Gary's family and loved ones at this time.