Bystanders at 2 Gloucester beaches help rescue swimmers

Three young swimmers were rescued from strong currents at Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester, Massachusetts, on Tuesday. A 5-year-old girl, an 8-year-old boy, and a 14-year-old girl wandered into the dangerous current of the Annisquam River. Local residents, including a nurse aboard a nearby boat, performed CPR and coordinated the rescue. The two girls were hospitalized, with the 5-year-old in serious condition and the 14-year-old stabilizing. The 8-year-old boy was released to his parents.

Gloucester Fire Chief Eric Smith highlighted that all three children ingested significant amounts of saltwater and must now fight off infections. Earlier in the day, a separate rescue occurred at Good Harbor Beach involving a 77-year-old man, who was also saved by bystanders. Both incidents underscore the importance of vigilance in waters known for strong currents.