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Massachusetts woman who recently had baby saves life of swimmer in distress at Cape Cod beach

Published

1 week ago

July 6, 2024

Ken Paiva

Photo courtesy of Barnstable Police

A Massachusetts woman is rightfully being labeled a hero.

According to police, on Friday, the Barnstable Police received a 911 call from Dowses Beach in Osterville reporting a person drowning in the water.

When officers arrived on the scene, they observed that the 46-year-old swimmer in distress had been pulled from the water and was being medically treated by two good Samaritans.

The victim, unfamiliar with the abrupt drop-off and strong current in the channel, had begun yelling for help as he struggled to reach the surface.

33-year-old Frances Lonergan of Longmeadow, on vacation with her family and newborn baby, heard the victim’s call for help. Without hesitation, she jumped into the channel and began pulling the victim to safety. Another bystander, on vacation from New York, witnessed Lonergan’s selfless act of courage and also jumped in to assist.

The rescued swimmer, who was conscious and alert, was transported to Cape Cod Hospital by COMM Fire for further medical evaluation.

Witnesses explained that Lonergan’s heroic actions undoubtedly saved the swimmer’s life.