A mother is in critical condition after officials say she ran into the ocean in Brigantine to rescue her two children when they became overpowered by the current.

Police and firefighters received a 911 call Wednesday around 9:28 a.m. regarding a swimmer in distress.

Brigantine City Beach Patrol arrived and rescued the two young children, as well as the 28-year-old female from the water.

The woman was transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in critical condition. The children were evaluated and reunited with family.

An investigation determined the woman's two children were wading/swimming in the ocean prior to the incident. According to a witness, the children appeared to have become overpowered by the current and were in distress. The witness observed the woman run into the ocean to attempt to rescue her children, and subsequently observed her become distressed and disappear underwater.

The witness immediately sought help and dialed 911. Due to the mother's selfless actions and the witness immediately seeking help, the children were able to be rescued by Brigantine Beach Patrol who were training prior to their shift on a beach nearby.

Brigantine beachgoers are reminded that lifeguards from Brigantine Beach Patrol are on duty from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Waders and swimmers are strongly encouraged to swim at a guarded beach and between the flags designating the swimming area.