FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Tragedy on Father’s Day: Antwon Wilson, 33, Dies Heroically Saving Daughter from Drowning
What was meant to be a joyful Father’s Day celebration turned into a scene of heartbreak and heroism as 33-year-old Antwon Wilson, of Lauderhill, lost his life while selflessly rescuing his daughter from drowning in the ocean waters off Fort Lauderdale Beach. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, June 15, 2025, near the B Ocean Resort, shortly after lifeguards had gone off duty for the day.
According to authorities and witness accounts, Wilson was enjoying the beach with his young daughter and other family members during the early evening hours when tragedy struck. As the sun began to set and lifeguards cleared their stations for the day, strong currents and increasing wave activity caught beachgoers off guard. Wilson’s daughter, whose name is being withheld due to her age, was suddenly pulled into deeper waters by an unexpected rip current.
Without hesitation and despite the growing danger, Wilson sprang into action. Eyewitnesses say he dove into the surf and managed to reach his daughter, pushing her above water and guiding her toward safety. Other bystanders rushed into the waves to assist, helping the child safely to shore. But in the effort to save her, Antwon Wilson became overwhelmed by the powerful current and disappeared beneath the surface.
Emergency responders arrived on scene within minutes after receiving frantic 911 calls. Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue initiated a water search and recovery operation, eventually locating Wilson and pulling him from the water. Despite life-saving efforts and transport to a nearby hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
A Father’s Ultimate Sacrifice
Those who knew Antwon Wilson describe him as a devoted father, a hardworking man, and someone who always put his family first. His love for his daughter was evident to all who saw them together, and his final act—giving his life to ensure hers—was the ultimate testament to that love.
“He was her hero in every sense of the word,” said family friend Malik Jennings. “He always said he would do anything to protect his little girl. And he meant it.”
Wilson’s death has left the Lauderhill and broader South Florida community in shock and mourning. Family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers have begun placing flowers, photos, and handwritten messages at a makeshift memorial near the beach where the tragedy occurred.
A Community in Mourning
The City of Fort Lauderdale issued a statement extending condolences to the Wilson family, emphasizing the importance of water safety and the critical role lifeguards play in preventing such tragedies. Officials also reminded the public of the dangers of swimming after hours when no lifeguards are on duty.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder that the ocean can turn dangerous in moments, and that heroic acts sometimes come at the highest cost,” the statement read.
Lauderhill Mayor Ken Thurston also released a statement, honoring Wilson’s bravery:
“Antwon Wilson gave his life to save his daughter, a sacrifice that speaks to his incredible courage and fatherly love. Our hearts go out to his family during this devastating time. The City of Lauderhill stands with you.”
Honoring Antwon’s Legacy
In the wake of this tragedy, friends have started a GoFundMe campaign to support Antwon’s family and cover funeral expenses. As word spreads of his selfless act, support has been pouring in from across the state and beyond.
Wilson is survived by his daughter, his mother, two sisters, and a close-knit group of extended family and friends who are now left to navigate life without the man they lovingly called “Tony.”
A Final Act of Love
Antwon Wilson’s final moments were marked not by fear, but by fierce devotion—the kind of love only a parent can understand. As Father’s Day becomes forever linked to this immeasurable loss, his community will remember him not only for the life he lived, but for the incredible sacrifice he made.
A candlelight vigil is being planned on Fort Lauderdale Beach in the coming days, where those touched by Antwon’s story will gather to celebrate his memory and mourn his passing. He died as he lived—a protector, a father, a hero.
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