OSTERVILLE – A swimmer was reported in distress at Dowse’s Beach in Osterville around 5:45 PM Friday. The victim was out of the water and reported conscious when EMTs arrived.
A report a short time later of another swimmer in distress at Hamblin Pond in Marstons Mills fortunately turned out to be a good intent call.
Update from Barnstable Police: On Friday, July 5th, 2024, the Barnstable Police received a 911 call from Dowses Beach in Osterville reporting a person drowning in the water. When officers arrived on the scene, they observed that the 46-year-old swimmer in distress had been pulled from the water and was being medically treated by two good Samaritans.
The victim, unfamiliar with the abrupt drop-off and strong current in the channel, had begun yelling for help as he struggled to reach the surface.
33-year-old Frances Lonergan of Longmeadow, Massachusetts, on vacation with her family and newborn baby, heard the victim’s call for help. Without hesitation, she jumped into the channel and began pulling the victim to safety. Another bystander, on vacation from New York, witnessed
Mrs. Lonergan’s selfless act of courage and also jumped in to assist. The rescued swimmer, who was conscious and alert, was transported to Cape Cod Hospital by COMM Fire for further medical evaluation.
Witnesses explained that Mrs. Lonergan’s heroic actions undoubtedly saved the swimmer’s life. We are extremely grateful for the bystanders who put their own safety at risk to save the life of a complete stranger. Your actions exemplify true bravery and compassion. Job Well Done!
