Ronkonkoma man helps save swimmer swept away in Shinnecock Inlet
Southampton Senior Harbormaster Al Tuzzolo said Begapor Hila swam too far from shore and became trapped in the current at the inlet, a location known for strong tidal flows.
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A 56-year-old man was rescued after becoming caught in a powerful tide while swimming near Shinnecock Inlet on Monday, according to Southampton Town officials.
Southampton Senior Harbormaster Al Tuzzolo said Begapor Hila swam too far from shore and became trapped in the current at the inlet, a location known for strong tidal flows.
Paul Muia, of Ronkonkoma, was fishing from shore when he spotted Hila struggling in the water.
"I'm like, 'This guy's in distress. He needs help,'" Muia said. "So right away I sent my drone up so I could get a location on him because my drone can track a person. Then I called 911."
Drone footage captured by Muia shows boaters throwing Hila a line and pulling him to safety.
Southampton Town Marine Patrol responded to the scene and evaluated Hila, who was able to return to shore unharmed.
"They sent the marine unit. I told them exactly where he was, and they were able to save him," Muia said.
With only a few weeks of summer remaining, Southampton officials are reminding beachgoers to be cautious when swimming near inlets and other areas known for strong currents.
"It's an unguarded beach. There are no lifeguards," Tuzzolo said. "Its proximity to the inlet makes it susceptible to strong currents. If you can swim at a lifeguarded beach, we strongly recommend that."
The harbormaster's office receives about four to six distress calls annually at the location, Tuzzolo said.
After the rescue, Muia posed for a photo with Hila on dry land.
"Yeah, the guy was super thankful. His family kept thanking me 1,000 times," Muia said.
