Tragedy at Bertie Beach: Community Mourns Loss of Mother and Son in Drowning Incident
It is with heavy hearts that Bertie County confirms a heartbreaking incident that unfolded on the evening of Monday, July 8, 2025, at Bertie Beach, located at 242 Bal Gra Road in Merry Hill, North Carolina. First responders were dispatched at approximately 5:41 p.m. following reports of a drowning in progress. What began as a routine summer outing turned into an unimaginable tragedy, claiming the lives of a beloved mother and son.
Upon arrival, first responders were informed that two individuals—a mother and her son—had gone under the water and were in distress. As the urgency of the situation became apparent, a selfless and heroic effort was quickly mobilized. An off-duty Bertie County EMS worker, the Merry Hill Fire Chief and his family, other first responders, and concerned beachgoers did not hesitate to rush into the water in a valiant attempt to save lives.
Through their brave and coordinated efforts, an 11-year-old girl—the daughter and sister of the drowning victims—was successfully rescued. Tragically, despite the immediate and determined life-saving measures that were performed, 35-year-old Shaunna Jernigan and 14-year-old Timothy Jernigan, both of Colerain, North Carolina, could not be revived and were pronounced deceased. Their bodies were recovered approximately 150 yards from the shoreline, where the water becomes notably deeper and more dangerous.
Initial statements from the rescued child provided clarity on the circumstances leading up to the incident. According to her account, she had been at the beach with her mother and older brother. She and her mother had been floating peacefully on an inflatable raft, while her brother was swimming nearby. At some point, Timothy could no longer feel the bottom beneath him and began to panic. His mother, Shaunna, immediately attempted to assist him but soon became distressed herself. As both struggled in the deeper waters, beachgoers courageously intervened and were able to rescue the young girl, though efforts to save her mother and brother tragically proved unsuccessful.
The Bertie County community has been deeply affected by this profound loss. Shaunna and Timothy Jernigan were more than just names—they were cherished members of their family, loved by friends, neighbors, and the broader community. Their sudden passing leaves behind a void that words cannot adequately express. We lift up their family, especially the young girl who now carries the heavy burden of loss, in our collective thoughts and prayers.
We also extend our sincere gratitude to all who responded with courage and compassion. The bravery and selflessness shown by the Merry Hill Fire Department, Bertie County EMS, Bertie County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina Marine Fisheries, Windsor Police Department, Bertie County Communication Dispatchers, and the many beachgoers who put themselves at risk to help—each and every one is a hero. Their actions, while not able to change the outcome, exemplify the very best of humanity and community spirit.
Resources, including grief counseling and emotional support, have been made available to the family and all first responders involved. The next of kin have been notified, and the County is working to ensure that the family receives the continued support they need during this unimaginably painful time.
As we mourn, we also remember the importance of water safety, awareness of local swimming conditions, and the need for communal vigilance, especially during the summer months. Let this tragedy serve not only as a time of grief but also as a solemn reminder to protect one another, to act when help is needed, and to cherish every moment with our loved ones.
Bertie County stands united in sorrow and support. May Shaunna and Timothy Jernigan rest in eternal peace, and may their family feel the unwavering embrace of a community that cares deeply.