'Hero to many': Celebration of life for Sanford man who died saving mother, children from drowning
A celebration of life is being held for a Sanford man who died after attempting to save a mother and two children from drowning at Four-Wheel-Drive Beach at Fort Fisher.
Joe West, 58, was described as "a beloved husband, an amazing father, a loyal friend, a forever jokester and an avid outdoorsman."
According to his obituary, West had been out at the beach enjoying fishing with family and friends when he saw the mother and kids in danger. Loved ones said his heroic actions were not a surprise, but an expression of his selfless personality.
"In true Joe fashion, he saw people in need and jumped in to help, never worrying about himself," his obituary read. "He was a hero to many long before he selflessly gave his life trying to save complete strangers."
West lived "a life of service," coaching softball, helping in booster clubs, mentoring children and working in environmental health.
West had a wife of 29 years and a daughter.
Just before his death, a water rescue call had come in for seven victims needing to be rescued from the water. All seven were rescued, but West, who had jumped in to help, was found unconscious. Authorities said life-saving measures were performed in the water and on land but were unsuccessful.
Nearly 200 water rescues along Carolina coast over the weekend
Over 190 water rescues were performed Saturday and Sunday at various beaches along the Carolina coast.
According to WRAL meteorologist Anthony Baglione, 88 water rescues were performed yesterday between various beaches along the North Carolina and South Carolina coast.
Carolina Beach had the most Saturday with a total of 61 water rescues. Other beaches that had rescues were:
- Wrightsville Beach: 15
- Kure Beach: 11
- Myrtle Beach: 1
On Sunday, the beaches had a combined 124 water rescues, with over 70 at Carolina Beach.
