A 47-year-old Georgia elementary school teacher and father has been identified as a hero after he lost his life while attempting to save a young girl caught in a rip current off Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Derrick Moore entered the water near 10th Avenue South on Friday evening after responding to a distress call from lifeguards who were off duty at the time. He was able to get the girl to safety but then became trapped by the powerful current and disappeared underwater. Despite an extensive search effort, his body was not located until Saturday morning when it washed ashore.
Moore's family has been overcome with grief following his tragic death. His daughter described him as a loving father who made a lasting impact on their lives. "We loved him and are truly heartbroken that he's gone," she said in a statement. Moore leaves behind four children, according to a GoFundMe page.
The DeKalb County School District has confirmed that Moore was a current teacher at Rockbridge Elementary School in Georgia, where he was affectionately known as "Coach." The district praised him for his dedication to education and the meaningful impact he had on students, families, and colleagues. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp also paid tribute to Moore, calling him a hero who will be deeply missed.
Moore's death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from friends, former teammates, and family members who remembered him as a devoted father, gifted athlete, and selfless individual whose final act reflected the way he lived his life.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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