Community Corner

Good Samaritan Saves Struggling Swimmer at Cherry Grove

Police, fire and nearby lifeguards joined in helping to save a man's life.

A 24-year-old Cherry Grove swimmer was saved from drowning Sunday afternoon thanks to a good samaritan and local police and emergency officials who responded to the scene.

According to Suffolk Police Marcos Cruz was swimming about 2 p.m. in an area not within the lifeguard section of the beach when he began struggling to stay above water.

Police say West Babylon resident Christina Lang, 48, initially responded to help Cruz. She was then helped by a Suffolk County Marine Bureau police officer, members of the Cherry Grove Fire Department and Fire Island National Seashore lifeguards from nearby Sailors Haven who helped pulled in Cruz and Lang with a line.

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After being administered first aid, both were airlifted by Suffolk County Police helicopter to Stony Brook University Medical Center for treatment.


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