News Summary
Two men from Georgia drowned in separate incidents in Beaufort County, South Carolina, as rip current risks surged. Local authorities are urging beachgoers to prioritize safety. Lifeguards recommend swimming only in designated areas as moderate rip current risks were issued. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding these tragic events, as officials emphasize adherence to water safety guidelines during the busy holiday weekend.
Beaufort County, South Carolina
Two men from Georgia tragically drowned in separate incidents in Beaufort County, South Carolina, amidst a surge in rip current risks. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a moderate rip current risk advisory effective from the morning of July 5 until 8:00 p.m. on the same day, impacting Beaufort, Coastal Colleton, Charleston, and Coastal Jasper counties.
The first incident occurred on June 30 at around 6:30 p.m., when 69-year-old William King was found struggling in the water near Coligny Beach Park on Hilton Head Island. Bystanders were able to assist King back to the shore where a lifeguard commenced lifesaving measures. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead shortly after 7:00 p.m.
The second drowning took place on July 1 at approximately 5:30 p.m. A 65-year-old man was discovered floating off Hunting Island State Park. Despite the efforts of a bystander who was fishing and attempted CPR, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has yet to disclose the identity of this victim pending notification of next of kin.
As people flock to the beaches this holiday weekend, local authorities are emphasizing the importance of water safety. They recommend swimming only in designated areas monitored by lifeguards. The beaches at Tybee Island are currently displaying double red flags, signifying extremely hazardous conditions, including strong surf and powerful longshore currents. Beach officials have advised visitors to refrain from entering the water beyond knee depth during these adverse conditions.
In terms of safety guidelines for those who may find themselves caught in a rip current, individuals should remain calm and float instead of attempting to swim directly against the current. If possible, swimming parallel to the shoreline can assist in escaping the grip of the current. If rescue efforts are necessary, swimmers are encouraged to face the shore and signal for help by waving their arms or calling out.
The advisory regarding rip currents for South Carolina beaches is part of a broader warning that includes updates on local surf and water conditions by the NWS and Shore Beach Services. This organization uses a flag system to communicate varying levels of danger: yellow flags indicate moderate risks, while red flags denote high hazards, and purple flags are raised when dangerous marine life is present.
In addition to the two drownings, non-life-threatening shark bites were reported on Hilton Head beaches in June, highlighting the diverse risks associated with beach outings in the area. Prior to these incidents, Beaufort County had recorded only three drownings since 2017, reflecting the region’s otherwise very low drowning statistics.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating both fatal drowning incidents to better understand the circumstances that led to these tragic events. As the holiday weekend approaches, officials continue to urge both residents and visitors to take heed of the ocean conditions and prioritize their safety while enjoying the beaches.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Drownings Highlight Rip Current Dangers in Beaufort County
Tragic Drownings in South Carolina Beaches Prompt Safety Warnings
Tragic Drowning Incidents in Beaufort County
Tragic Drowning Incident on Hilton Head Island
Additional Resources
- WTOC: Dangerous Rip Currents Expected at South Carolina Beaches
- Google Search: Rip currents South Carolina
- Bluffton Today: Two Drown in Beaufort County
- Google Scholar: Rip currents water safety
- Fox Weather: 2 Men Drown in Hilton Head
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rip currents
- Post and Courier: Drowning at Hilton Head
- Google News: Drowning incidents South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
