Teen Dies After Riptide Rescue in Lake Worth Beach; Two Others Stable

A tragic weekend incident at Lake Worth Beach claimed the life of a 17-year-old boy who was pulled from the ocean after being caught in a riptide. Two other boys, ages 12 and 17, who were also swept up in the current, survived after being rescued and hospitalized.

Three Boys Caught in Powerful Riptide

The incident occurred Saturday afternoon near the 3000 block of South Ocean Boulevard in Lake Worth Beach. At approximately 2:09 p.m., deputies from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) responded to reports of a drowning. When they arrived at the scene, they learned that three swimmers—two 17-year-olds and one 12-year-old—had been caught in a strong riptide. The riptide had pulled the boys out into deeper water, keeping them submerged and disoriented for a prolonged period. Lifeguards stationed at Lake Worth Beach responded quickly and entered the water to perform the rescue.

Rescue Efforts and CPR Administered

Lake Worth Beach lifeguards, along with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, acted swiftly to bring all three boys back to shore. According to officials, the rescuers immediately performed CPR on the victims once they were safely out of the water. Emergency responders then transported all three to a local hospital for further treatment. While the younger two boys regained consciousness and were reported to be alert and in stable condition, the condition of the third swimmer was more serious. Despite the efforts of first responders and medical staff, the 17-year-old later died from his injuries.

Community Shaken by Tragedy

The loss has left a deep impact on the local community. Though the identities of the boys have not been publicly released, news of the drowning spread quickly throughout the area. Residents have expressed sorrow and concern for the families involved, while also praising the quick action of the lifeguards and emergency crews. Palm Beach County officials continue to urge beachgoers to exercise caution, especially when swimming in ocean waters with active currents. Riptides can form unexpectedly and are capable of pulling even experienced swimmers away from shore.

Safety Reminders Issued

As summer approaches and more people head to the beach, safety officials are stressing the importance of swimming near lifeguard stations, understanding warning flag systems, and learning how to escape a riptide if caught. Swimmers are advised to remain calm, swim parallel to the shore to escape the current, and only attempt to return to shore once free of the riptide’s pull. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office said no foul play is suspected in the incident. The investigation into the drowning is ongoing, but the focus remains on supporting the families and raising awareness about ocean safety.