NYC Firefighter Drowns After Attempting To Save Daughter Caught in Rough New Jersey Beach Currents

A New York City firefighter tragically lost his life while attempting to rescue his teenage daughter, who was caught in turbulent waves.

On Friday morning, Mark Batista tried to save his daughter’s life as she fought for her life on the Jersey Shore. At approximately 8:38 a.m., multiple units were dispatched to Sylvania Avenue Beach following reports from witnesses regarding two swimmers in a state of distress.

Approximately 10 minutes later, rescue swimmers located the girl and promptly transported her to a hospital for necessary medical care. However, Batista was discovered submerged in water. Despite lifesaving attempts, he, unfortunately, passed away upon arrival at the hospital.

Following the incident, the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office issued a cautionary advisory. The warning advised swimmers against entering the water in the absence of lifeguards on duty. At the time of Batista’s drowning, there were no lifeguards on duty. As of now, they are not returning to work until the upcoming Saturday.

FDNY spokesperson Jim Long stated that the department was deeply “heartbroken” by the incident.

“Firefighter Batista was a dedicated public servant who spent 15 years serving in the FDNY. As both an EMT and a firefighter,” Long said. “We join his family in mourning his tragic passing.”