47-Year-Old Good Samaritan Dies Rescuing Young Girl Caught in Rip Current at the Beach, Police Say
The teacher got the child to safety before being pulled under by the rip current, and his body was found the next day, officials said.
- On Friday, August 7, 2026, Georgia teacher Derrick Moore, 47, of Loganville, died after rescuing a young girl from a rip current in Myrtle Beach. Moore brought the child to safety before being pulled underwater by the current.
- Known affectionately as 'Coach' by his students, Moore was a health and physical education teacher at Rockbridge Elementary School in the DeKalb County School District. He previously taught at Jolly Elementary School.
- Following the rescue, authorities searched for Moore, whose body washed ashore around 1 p.m. on Saturday near 11th Avenue South. The incident occurred after lifeguards had gone off duty.
- "We loved him and are truly heartbroken that he's gone," his daughter said. Moore leaves behind four children, and family members confirmed he did not know the girl he rescued.
- The DeKalb County School District will provide counselors at Rockbridge and Jolly elementary schools to support grieving students and staff. Officials said the community would come together "with compassion, patience, and understanding" to honor Moore's life.
51 Articles
51 Articles
DeKalb teacher remembered as a hero after dying while trying to save child in Myrtle Beach
A longtime DeKalb County educator is being remembered for his dedication to his students and his courage after he died while trying to save a child caught in a rip current in Myrtle Beach.
Next is the Holy Mary Weekend, usually the busiest moment on the coast during each summer season. In 2023 and 2024, the total number of tourists on the coast reached, in the mini-vacance of Saint Mary, some 150,000 people, and in 2025 it reached a record of over 200,000. The weather is good, ...
'He was so selfless': Family of swimmer who died after rescuing child from rip current in Myrtle Beach speaks out
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — The family of the swimmer who died after rescuing a child from a rip current said they were not surprised to hear about his selfless act. Derrick Moore, a teacher and father from Georgia, is remembered by his family for his unwavering kindness and generous nature. According to officials, the [...]
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 94% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
