A 32-year-old father from Northern California tragically died after trying to save his son who was swept by a wave into the ocean.
George Botello and his family just wanted to have some fun at Moss Landing State Beach in Monterey County when a wave suddenly swept the boy into the ocean.
Botello managed to reach his son but he was quickly pulled under, Monterey County Sheriff’s spokesperson Derrell Simpson said to KSBW.
His wife jumped in to the ocean and attempted to rescue her son but she returned to the shore upon realizing that the water conditions were too treacherous.
Botello’s 12-year-old son was eventually pulled to safety by a bystander who saw the tragedy unfold.
A lifeguard on a paddle-board tried to rescue Botello but before he managed to hold him, the father was pulled under the water and did not resurface again.
“The parents are to be commended. They both put themselves in harm’s way to save a child they loved and it’s a tragic incident,” Simpson said.
Officials used a helicopter, a drone, Jet Skis, and a dive team to search for the father.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family. “There’s no words or money that could ever help heal the pain of losing a loved one especially in the case of my good friend George Botello father of 5 kids and a husband,” it reads.
One person commented: “A true hero and role model for all Americans. He risked his life to save the boy. Truly tragic but so much respect for this guy. Give this a thumbs up to send prayers and honor him.”
Another wrote: “Heartbreaking and tragic. Our prayers go out to the family, keep them safe and guarded.”
A third said: “The man is a hero, hopefully the son doesn’t blame himself for the rest of this life. Poor kid RIP Dad.”
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