FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Heroic Father Dies Saving Daughter in Tragic Father’s Day Drowning
What was meant to be a joyful celebration turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on Sunday evening, June 15, 2025, when 33-year-old Antwon Wilson of Lauderhill lost his life while rescuing his young daughter from drowning in the waters off Fort Lauderdale Beach. The incident occurred near the B Ocean Resort, just moments after lifeguards had gone off duty for the day, leaving the beach unguarded.
According to witnesses and initial reports from Fort Lauderdale Police and Fire Rescue, Wilson was enjoying a relaxed Father’s Day outing with his family—an afternoon filled with laughter, warm sunshine, and cherished time spent together. That peace was shattered when his daughter, wading in the shallow surf, was suddenly caught by a powerful rip current and swept farther from shore.
Without hesitation or concern for his own safety, Wilson charged into the water to save her.
A Father’s Final Act of Love
Several beachgoers reported seeing Wilson reach his daughter and push her toward safety as the current pulled at them both. He was able to propel her close enough for others to help pull her to shore, but tragically, he was pulled under before he could reach the beach himself.
Emergency responders arrived quickly after 911 calls flooded in. Rescue swimmers located Wilson and brought him to shore, where CPR was administered. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition but was later pronounced dead.
Wilson’s daughter, though shaken, is physically unharmed—a miracle made possible by her father’s selfless act.
A Community Mourns a Hero
The Lauderhill and Fort Lauderdale communities are mourning the devastating loss of a man many are now calling a hero. Friends and family remember Antwon Wilson as a loving father, a hard worker, and a man of great compassion and humility.
“He always put his kids first,” said longtime friend Marcus Reed. “Antwon would do anything for them—and this just shows how true that really was. He gave his life to make sure his daughter could live. That’s the kind of man he was.”
Wilson worked as a local technician and was known in his neighborhood for his gentle spirit, his smile, and his devotion to his children. He is survived by his daughter, who was with him during the incident, a younger son, his partner, and extended family.
A GoFundMe page has been established to help support Wilson’s children and assist with funeral costs. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with friends, neighbors, and strangers alike donating in his memory.
Renewed Calls for Beach Safety
The tragedy has reignited concerns over beach safety—particularly after lifeguard hours. The incident occurred just after lifeguards had ended their shift at 5:00 p.m., leaving swimmers without protection during a still-busy time on the beach.
Local officials are facing renewed pressure to extend patrol hours or post more visible warnings about after-hours swimming dangers, especially during holidays and weekends when beachgoers stay late into the evening.
“Too many lives have been lost this way,” said one beach safety advocate. “This family went from celebrating Father’s Day to planning a funeral in a matter of minutes. We owe it to Antwon and others like him to make our beaches safer for everyone.”
Honoring His Memory
As news of Wilson’s heroic final moments spreads, tributes continue to pour in from across South Florida and beyond. A candlelight vigil is being planned near the site of the incident on Fort Lauderdale Beach later this week to honor his bravery and sacrifice.
Local leaders are also discussing the possibility of establishing a beachside memorial to commemorate Wilson’s legacy and raise awareness about the importance of beach safety and rip current education.
His loved ones, though devastated, find strength in knowing that his final act was one of pure, selfless love.
“Antwon was our protector in life, and he’s our angel now,” said his sister, Alisha. “He died doing what any great father would do—putting his child first. We will never forget him, and we will make sure his children grow up knowing what a hero their father was.”
Rest in peace, Antwon Wilson. Your courage and love will never be forgotten.