STAFF REPORTS
Photo Caption: Fallen Lifeguard Ben Carlson (Photo Courtesy: L.A. County Fire, Lifeguard Division)
Newport Beach – With dangerous rip currents and ten to 12-foot swells, the conditions just off the coast of Newport were rather precarious for visitors on the 4th of July weekend. With over 100,000 people enjoying the sun and surf on Sun., July 6, the Newport Beach Lifeguard staff of about 80 had a busy day with over 200 rescues and 3,000 warnings issued by the time seasoned lifeguard, Ben Carlson, 32, dove from his rescue boat to help a distressed swimmer close to one of the main piers.
Reports say that at just after 5 p.m. when Carlson hit the water and valiantly tried to reach the unidentified swimmer, the strong current and huge swells overtook both of them and Carlson disappeared. Because of the conditions, fellow lifeguards were not able to reach Carlson, despite a frantic search.
Lifeguard authorities stated that 25 people from multiple agencies searched the water, 30 more scoured the shore, and a police helicopter looked from above. Carlson was finally found in the ocean at about 8 p.m., and was rushed to nearby Hoag Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The swimmer made it back to the shore and survived.
Carlson, who worked for the Newport Beach Fire Department, had 15 years of experience as a lifeguard. He was reportedly one of the strongest and fastest swimmers on staff, and had experience with big swells from years as a surfer. It is reported that Carlson also had additional skills as a rescue swimmer and driver of patrol boats.
Carlson was the first lifeguard to die in the line of duty in Newport Beach’s history. He was raised in the Inland Empire, attended the University of California, Irvine, and loved to surf and be in and around the water. Colleagues say being a lifeguard was his life’s goal. He was a true hero, doing what he loved best.
