Over the weekend, a beach day at Huguenot Park took a near-tragic turn when three children were pulled from the water, potentially drowning, if not for the fast actions of some Jacksonville Sheriff's officers and a quick-thinking beachgoer. According to a Facebook post from the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, the episode began with beachgoer Steven Insco and officers sprung into action upon hearing cries for help from a young boy caught in a rip current.
Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Beach Patrol Officer Tyler Sweeney was reported to have immediately stripped off his gear and "dove into the water to find the boy who was calling for help." At the same time, Officer Billy Crocker attended to an unconscious 8-year-old girl onshore, giving her a sternum rub that prompted signs of recovery, an image of which was shared by the Sheriff's Office. The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue were quick to arrive and to begin oxygen treatment on the young girl before transporting her to the hospital.
Further reports from the Sheriff's Office indicated that Officer Crocker, who was recently commended as JSO's Police Officer of the Month, made a follow-up visit to the hospital on Sunday. He confirmed that the girl had improved significantly and would be soon released. Crocker's previous recognitions for his service include solving a hit-and-run case involving another child.
The Sheriff's Office emphasized the importance of water safety in their statement, cautioning both adults and children to assess their swimming abilities and to "stay out" if in doubt about the water conditions. They noted, "Rip currents and rough surf are deadly."
