FDNY firefighter dies while rescuing daughter at Avon Beach

The individual who tragically lost his life while attempting to rescue his teenage daughter from a rip current at the Jersey Shore has been identified as Mark Batista, a firefighter from the FDNY.

In a statement, the FDNY expressed their deep sorrow upon learning about the passing of Firefighter Mark Batista, who tragically died during a swimming incident at the Jersey Shore on Friday.

Firefighter Batista dedicated fifteen years of his life to serving the public as an EMT and firefighter within the FDNY. The department joins his family in grieving the loss of this brave individual.

Batista was assigned to Engine Company 226, located in the Boerum Hill section of Brooklyn.

According to reports, the incident occurred when Batista’s daughter went swimming near the jetty at around 8:30 a.m. and was caught in a rip current, being carried several yards out into the ocean.

“In a valiant attempt to save his daughter, Batista immediately jumped into the water. Unfortunately, there were no lifeguards on duty at the time,” the report says.

“Rescue crews arrived swiftly at the scene and were able to successfully retrieve the girl, but Batista could not be located.”

The report adds that lifeguards, Jet Ski crews, and helicopters were deployed to assist in the search. Sadly, when they eventually found Batista, it was too late.

The report states that many beaches usually not have a full staff of lifeguards until the upcoming weekend.