GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — A Gwinnett County man has died after rescuing a young girl caught in a rip current.
It happened shortly after 7:30 p.m. on Friday in Myrtle Beach.
A witness tells us the heroic actions she saw, LIVE on Channel 2 Action News starting at 4:00 p.m.
The fire department said a girl got caught in a rip current and a man went in to save her.
“[The] swimmer entered the water to help her and was able to get her to safety, but was then pulled underwater by the rip current,” the Myrtle Beach Police Department said.
The man’s body washed ashore around 1 p.m. on Saturday. He has been identified as Derrick Moore, 47, of Loganville.
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Moore was a teacher in DeKalb County. The school district sent us a statement, saying:
“The DeKalb County School District is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Derrick Moore, a beloved educator and valued member of the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) family.
“Mr. Moore, lovingly referred to as “Coach” by his students, was a current teacher at Rockbridge Elementary School, where he was a dedicated educator who cared deeply for his students and school community. Prior to joining Rockbridge Elementary School, Mr. Moore served as a teacher at Jolly Elementary School.
“Throughout his time with DeKalb County School District, Mr. Moore made a meaningful impact on the students, families, colleagues, and communities he served. His presence, care, and dedication to education will be deeply missed.
“School counselors and other trained support personnel will be available throughout the school day at both schools to provide students and staff with a safe and supportive space to talk, ask questions, express their feelings, or simply receive support. Families are encouraged to check in with their children, listen to their thoughts and feelings, and allow them to grieve in their own way. Families who believe their child needs additional assistance are encouraged to contact their school for support and resources.
“During this difficult time, the DeKalb County School District community will come together with compassion, patience, and understanding to honor Mr. Moore’s life and legacy. Our thoughts are with Mr. Moore’s family, loved ones, colleagues, students, and everyone whose life was touched by his kindness, dedication, and service to DCSD.”
WRAL-TV spoke with Moore’s family, he did not know the girl who went in the water.
“We loved him and are truly heartbroken that he’s gone,” his daughter said in a statement. “He was a great father, and we are all going to miss him.”
He leaves behind four children, the family said.
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