HAMPTON BEACH, N.H. – A family outing turned tragic Sunday evening when a 17-year-old boy drowned after being pulled out to sea by a powerful current at Hampton Beach.
The New Hampshire State Police – Marine Patrol reported that they received a call about a possible drowning at approximately 6:46 p.m. on August 24, 2025. Witnesses said the teen had been swimming with family members when he was suddenly swept away from shore.
In a desperate attempt to save his son, the boy’s father entered the water but also became overwhelmed by the strong current. With lifeguards officially off duty at the time, emergency personnel called them back to assist. Responding lifeguards entered the water, pulling both the teen and his father to shore.
Once on land, lifesaving measures were immediately administered to the teen as paramedics prepared him for transport. Both he and his father were taken to Exeter Hospital, where the teen was later pronounced deceased. His father remains in stable condition.
Authorities have not released the teen’s name due to his age.
The incident has left the Hampton Beach community shaken. “It’s devastating to see a young life lost like this,” said one beachgoer who witnessed the rescue efforts. “The ocean can be so unpredictable. My heart goes out to his family.”
The New Hampshire State Police – Marine Patrol is leading the investigation and is reminding swimmers of the dangers of rip currents, especially late in the day when lifeguard coverage may be limited.
Officials urge beachgoers to:
- Swim only in designated areas with lifeguard supervision.
- Stay aware of ocean conditions and posted warnings.
- Never swim alone and know how to escape a rip current by swimming parallel to shore.
As the investigation continues, grief counselors and community members are expected to support the family during this time of unimaginable loss.
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