Beach-goers Form Human Chain to Save Drowning Boy in New Zealand

Faline · #1 ● 03-11-2013, 04:24 PM

Joshua McQuoid was playing on the beach on Napier's Marine Parade in New Zealand on Sunday when he was knocked down by a wave and swept out to sea.
The 12-year-old was unable to reach the shore and was under water for 20 seconds at a time, police said.
His friend Hikiroa Ratapu alerted beach-goers and police to Joshua's struggle and a German tourist tried to pull him out of the water but could not keep hold of the boy in the heavy waves.
The conditions were described as "treacherous with dumping waves and an extremely strong undertow".
Police officers and members of the public then tried to pull the boy out of the water by forming a human chain.

Video of the incident shows up to 12 people pulling together and managing to pull Joshua ashore.
The 12-year-old was taken to Hawke's Bay Hospital where he was later discharged.
Joshua's father, Shane paid tribute to all those who had helped to rescue his son.
"I just wish I could thank each and every one. Without them basically my son wouldn't be here."