Heroic Rescue: Beachgoer Saves Young Woman from Rip Current

A young woman was rescued from a perilous rip current at Ocean City, New Jersey, on October 7, 2025, thanks to the swift actions of a beachgoer. Frank LaFerrara, who was enjoying a quiet afternoon at the beach, sprang into action after hearing someone cry for help.

Upon hearing the desperate calls, LaFerrara did not hesitate. He recalled, “A gentleman down by the water line here, he starts screaming for help and I said OK, gotta go.” Without a moment’s pause, he dove into the turbulent surf and swam hundreds of feet to reach the young woman, likely in her late teens or early 20s, who was struggling against the powerful current.

Once LaFerrara reached her, the situation escalated. “She got over to me and she jumped on my shoulders with her arms and started pushing me under,” he explained. In a tense moment, he had to reassure her. “I had to push her back and say, ‘Calm down, relax. I’m here to help.’”

As he made his way back to shore, another beachgoer, Johnny Cerda from Ventnor, joined the rescue effort. He swam out with a flotation device, providing crucial assistance in bringing the woman safely back to land.

By the time emergency crews arrived, the young woman was safely ashore, thanks to the courageous actions of LaFerrara and Cerda. Onlookers praised the duo’s bravery, including witness Dominick Dougherty, who remarked, “They put themselves in danger to save that little girl.”

After the ordeal, the young woman expressed her gratitude by hugging LaFerrara. “That was my reward right there,” he said, smiling at the heartwarming conclusion to a potentially tragic situation.

The incident serves as a reminder of the selflessness that can emerge in moments of crisis, showcasing the strength of community and the willingness to help others.