Fort Lauderdale, FL — What began as a joyful Father’s Day outing turned into an unimaginable tragedy for the Wilson family of Lauderhill. Antwon Wilson, a 33-year-old father of two, lost his life in a heroic act of selflessness after saving his daughter from drowning at Fort Lauderdale Beach on Sunday evening. The heartbreaking incident unfolded near the B Ocean Resort, just after lifeguard hours had ended, leaving the community in collective shock and mourning.
Ben Mourer Obituary: Allegheny College Mourns the Loss of Beloved Cross Country Coach and Mentor
According to Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue (FLFR), emergency crews were dispatched to the beach near Seabreeze Boulevard around 7:20 p.m. following multiple 911 calls about swimmers in distress. Among them was Antwon Wilson, who bravely entered the water after noticing two children, including his daughter, being pulled by a strong rip current.
“He was in the water with several family members,” said FLFR Battalion Chief Danny Moran. “When his daughter was struggling, Antwon didn’t hesitate — he went in and helped her to safety before going under himself.” Witnesses described the harrowing scene as Antwon fought to keep his daughter above the waterline, sacrificing his own safety in the process.
Lifeguards had officially ended their shift only 20 minutes earlier, but some were still present as they were packing up equipment. When the emergency was reported, several lifeguards and a bystander, described as a good Samaritan, sprang into action. Together, they managed to bring Antwon’s daughter and the other child to shore safely.
“The lifeguards didn’t hesitate,” said Moran. “They rushed in, rotated their trucks around, and responded immediately. Without their quick action and the help of the good Samaritan, we could have lost more lives.”
The good Samaritan, too, was briefly pulled under by the powerful current but was able to swim back to safety. Unfortunately, despite an urgent and thorough search involving lifeguards, firefighters, and paramedics, Antwon was found unresponsive in the water later that evening. He was brought to shore and given CPR before being rushed to Broward Health Medical Center along with his daughter and the Samaritan. While both survivors were physically stable, Antwon could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
A Father, A Hero, A Community Pillar
The news of Antwon Wilson’s tragic passing has devastated the Lauderhill community. Known for his unwavering love for his family, Antwon was active in local youth sports and community events. Always willing to lend a hand, he was widely respected for his generosity, kindness, and deep-rooted commitment to those around him.
“He died doing what any real father would do — protecting his child,” said family friend Tiana Moore. “Antwon was always a hero to us, but now the world knows it too.”
Tributes have poured in across social media, with friends and neighbors remembering Antwon as a dedicated father, a loyal friend, and a man whose strength and heart made a lasting impact. His final act of love has resonated far beyond the beach where he made the ultimate sacrifice.
A Community Unites in Grief and Tribute
To support the Wilson family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and provide for Antwon’s children. Local churches and leaders have expressed condolences and organized a candlelight vigil, where stories of Antwon’s life and courage will be shared in remembrance.
“This is what fatherhood looks like,” said Pastor Jerome Brooks, who leads a church near the Wilson family’s home. “Antwon’s story is heartbreaking, but it is also beautiful. He gave everything for his child. That is love in its purest form.”
A Cautionary Reminder About Ocean Safety
This tragedy also serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of swimming in the ocean outside of lifeguard-supervised hours. Though the water may appear calm, hidden currents and unpredictable tides can quickly turn fatal.
The Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Department has issued a renewed warning urging beachgoers to always follow safety flags, signs, and lifeguard instructions. “Swimming should always be done in designated areas and with caution, especially with children,” Moran emphasized.
A Legacy of Love and Courage
Though Antwon Wilson’s life ended far too soon, his legacy is powerful and enduring. On a day meant to celebrate fathers, Antwon embodied the deepest meaning of fatherhood — sacrifice, protection, and unconditional love. His daughter will grow up knowing her father was a true hero, a man whose final moments were spent ensuring her safety above all else.
Rest in peace, Antwon Wilson.
Your bravery will never be forgotten, and the love you gave will continue to shine through your children and your community. Your story will live on as a symbol of courage, selflessness, and a father’s undying love.
