Off-Duty Lifeguard Rescues Venice Beach Swimmers

Quick Smiles:

• Off-duty lifeguard jumps into action to save lives.
• Both swimmers safely brought back to shore.
• Rescue captured from above inspires gratitude and hope.

A day at Venice Beach in Florida took a heroic turn when Sarasota County lifeguard Landon Lacy sprang into action, even though he was off-duty.

While relaxing on May 30, Lacy noticed someone rushing toward the water, carrying flotation devices.

Just then, he received a notification on his phone about a water rescue in progress.

Without missing a beat, Lacy dove in and swam over 150 yards from shore, where two swimmers were caught in a powerful rip current.

He first reached a distressed woman and guided her safely to the beach.

“She was frantic, saying, ‘My husband’s dying,’” Lacy recalled.

Determined to help, Lacy swam even farther, an additional 200 to 300 yards, where he found her husband struggling to stay afloat.

Using his training, Lacy guided the man onto his back and helped him return safely to shore.

Both were checked by Venice Fire Rescue and found safe, thanks to Lacy’s quick response and courage.

This dramatic moment, captured from above by the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit, is a shining example of how one person’s bravery can make all the difference.

See Lacy’s story—and a kind stranger who assisted—in the video below.

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