Public Safety

Texas tourist drowns in apparent Rip Tide at Destin Beach

Tragedy struck in Destin on Friday when a Texas tourist drowned in the Gulf of Mexico after being caught in an apparent rip tide. The 39-year-old man had just arrived in […]

Jared Williams

Tragedy struck in Destin on Friday when a Texas tourist drowned in the Gulf of Mexico after being caught in an apparent rip tide. The 39-year-old man had just arrived in town and was swimming near the Shirah Beach Access when the incident occurred around 1:15 p.m.

According to reports, a lifeguard spotted the man struggling in the water and acted quickly to bring him back to shore. Despite the lifeguard’s efforts to save him, the man was unresponsive and emergency life-saving measures were initiated immediately.

Okaloosa County EMS arrived on the scene and transported the man to the Destin ER, where he was pronounced deceased despite intense efforts to revive him.

Rip currents can be dangerous and unpredictable, and beachgoers are reminded to heed all warning signs and advisories.

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H. G. commented on City of Destin releases countywide telephone survey results on Holiday Isle state park

“Use part of the $5million to remove the docks that are in an already overcrowded harbor.”

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Brandi commented on City of Destin releases countywide telephone survey results on Holiday Isle state park

“Isn't that going to make that area of waterway too crowded during tourist season ? As is already is!”

Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: April 1, 2026

“1 min 36 sec”

Kevin Greybill commented on City of Destin releases countywide telephone survey results on Holiday Isle state park

“Who authorized the building of the docks?”

Trav commented on Fort Walton Beach parents charged with child neglect and abuse after 2-year-old left alone in feces-covered room

“Hopefully never!”

“Hopefully they didn't get their child back. They're lucky the Kiddo survived.”

W Taylor commented on City of Destin releases countywide telephone survey results on Holiday Isle state park

“The county needs to walk away gracefully and let Destin handle it.”

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“Jim Bagby, take the pledge to always support & fight for the citizens & tourists proven historic right to free and unobstructed access to and use of the beaches in...”

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