Hero of the Week: Woman saves man from drowning on Cape Cod beach

This week's hero is a woman who was on a beach in Cape Cod with her family and newborn baby. She jumped into action when she saw a man drowning. Here's the story from the Barnstable Police Department.

(Photo: 33 year old Frances Lonergan of Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Credit: Barnstable Police Department)

Heroic Woman saves man from drowning on Cape Cod beach

  Barnstable Police Departmen Facebook Page July 7, 2024

On Friday, July 5th, 2024, 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, Massachusetts, 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 Mrs. 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 Mrs. Lonergan’s heroic actions undoubtedly saved the swimmer's life. We are extremely grateful for the bystanders who put their own safety at risk to save the life of a complete stranger. Your actions exemplify true bravery and compassion. 

Job Well Done!