After bravely diving into the ocean to rescue swimmers trapped in a hazardous rip current, a former Georgia police officer and former professional baseball player passed away. According to the Pawleys Island Police Department, Anderson “Chase” Childers, 38, drowned Sunday afternoon off Pawleys Island, South Carolina, after he and another onlooker hurried into the water to assist multiple individuals in need. In a social media tribute, the department stated, “He died trying to save others.”
According to KBTX, Childers, a native of Kennesaw, Georgia, was residing in Paulding County and had worked for the Cobb County Police Department for over three years as a uniformed patrol officer. Childers was well-known for his baseball skills prior to his career in law enforcement. After attending Georgia State University and North Cobb Christian School, he was selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the 2009 NBA Draft. According to Major League Baseball, he later played in the Orioles’ minor league system.
The Orioles released a statement saying, “We are saddened to learn of Chase’s passing and send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.” Sadly, Childers’ wife and three kids witnessed the rescue operation take place. Even though he was able to save a family of five, the powerful current eventually carried him away. To help Childers’ wife and kids, a GoFundMe page has already raised over $230,000. According to the campaign, he was a loving husband and father whose last moments were characterized by bravery and selflessness.
The fundraiser reads, “He heroically saved a family of five in a time of crisis… putting their lives above his own.” Tragically, despite his best efforts, he was unable to stay afloat. ultimately giving his life as a sacrifice in front of his wife and three children. “His love, bravery, and kindness will never be forgotten.”