JEFFERSON PARISH, La. (WGNO) — It’s been a “traumatic” Memorial Day weekend, one ending in a 13-year-old boy drowning at the Grand Isle Beach on Saturday afternoon, May 25.
“Please use caution when you are out here. Mother nature is stronger than you think,” said Brock Pellerin.
Grand Isle police officers say the teen disappeared underwater after dangerous waves pushed him toward the rock jetties.
Investigators say the incident happened behind the bridge side marina around 3 p.m.
“He was fighting them trying to stay above the water, but he eventually couldn’t fight it anymore and that was the last time they saw him,” said Grand Isle Police Department Assistant Chief Walter Theriot.
Pellerin says a friend alerted him about the boy drowning and immediately jumped into action.
“We probably searched for a good three or four hours and couldn’t come up with a very good response. Last night about 9:30 p.m., one of the drones picked up an image in the water. We searched for another hour and a half in the water,” said Pellerin.
After a search assisted by the United States Coast Guard, the boy’s body was discovered Sunday about three miles from where he drowned.
That same day, Theriot says a 10-year-old girl was pulled out of rough waters off the shore of Grand Isle.
“A wave knocked her over and she was unable to keep her balance and stay above. She was pulled onto the shore and at that point, CPR was started until airmen landed,” said Theriot.
“Once you get in that rip current you just can’t fight it, even for experienced swimmers,” said Pellerin.
Theriot explains there are no lifeguards, but signs warn swimmers of dangerous water conditions along the beach. Pellerin emphasizes the importance of staying alert at all times.
“Be aware of your surroundings. If it’s rough, don’t go too far out. Parents just keep an eye out for your kids. When they get too far holler at them and make them come back. The rock jetties over here, please stay off them when it’s rough,” said Pellerin.
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