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Florida officials search for swimmer who tried to rescue 2

Father, son drowned off beach south of Tampa

Ocean generic (WJXT)

APOLLO BEACH, Fla. – Florida deputies are searching for the body of a good Samaritan who tried to rescue a father and son who drowned off a beach south of Tampa.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office says the rescuer was also caught by the current in Apollo Beach.

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The sheriff’s office says the father was found dead late Friday, and the child was found and taken to a nearby hospital, where he died.

“Our hearts break for the father and son who lost their lives tonight," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The horrible sight led a selfless stranger to sacrifice his own life, in an attempt to save them.”

Their names and ages were not released. The U.S. Coast Guard is also searching for the man who tried to rescue them.