UMVA has learned that a daring ocean rescue unfolded on Saturday at New Smyrna Beach in Florida, where a woman was pulled from the water in a heart-stopping moment captured on harrowing footage.
The dramatic video, seemingly shot from an officer's body camera, shows a brave deputy charging into the shallow water to reach the struggling woman, who was floating face down. With seconds to spare, the officer begins dragging her to safety, and a swift-thinking bystander joins in to help pull her to shore.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the Volusia Sheriff's Office sprang into action at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, when concerned beachgoers flagged down deputies to report a swimmer in distress. Deputy Gourley swiftly located the victim and pulled her to shore, where she was unresponsive and without a pulse.
Deputy Gourley and Deputy Manhart sprang into action, immediately beginning CPR to revive the 68-year-old woman. Their swift and decisive actions paid off, as they successfully brought her back to life.
Beach Safety personnel arrived on scene and continued life-saving measures, ultimately transporting the woman to the hospital in stable condition. The heroic efforts of the deputies have earned them recognition, with the sheriff's office announcing that life-saving awards are forthcoming for their bravery.
This remarkable rescue serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that alert beachgoers and heroic first responders can have in emergency situations. The swift actions of the deputies and the concerned civilians who alerted them undoubtedly saved a life, and their bravery will be honored.
