Hero dad, 38, drowns trying to save son and niece from rip current at Florida beach

A has tragically died while trying to save his son and niece from during a family day out at the .

The family of Joshua Curtis, a former U.S. Army veteran, is grieving after his unexpected death on April 24, 2025. It is understood that he entered the water after the two children got into difficulty in a rip current at Main Beach in Fernandina Beach, .

According to a police report, when officers arrived at the scene they were able to recover two children before finding Curtis unresponsive in the water, according to the . He was taken to a local where he was later pronounced dead.

Based on their investigation and witness statements, police said that it is uncertain if Curtis was already in the water at the time of the incident, or whether he rushed in once he saw the children in distress, reports

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His loved ones have branded him an 'American hero' on a page established to help his family raise funds to cover travel costs to and from Massachusetts to attend Joshua's funeral. A message on the page read: "On April 24, 2025, Joshua lost his life at the age of 38, in his final heroic effort, saving the lives of his son and niece from a rip current at Main Beach in Fernandina Beach.

"Joshua was in Fernandina Beach from Massachusetts, visiting his family at the time of the accident."

Curtis’ family told CBS affiliate that the veteran, who was from Halifax, Mass., was visiting his Florida hometown at the time of the tragedy. He is survived by his wife and son Owen, 6.

"It is with great pride and sadness that we say goodbye to a man that embodies what it means to be a soldier, father, husband and ultimately a hero," his family said in a statement to the outlet.

Curtis served in and and was awarded the Purple Heart for heroism, per ABC affiliate . Additionally, Curtis also a coach for the Massachusetts-based youth football program.

On April 29 in a touching message on their Facbook page they said: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic loss of one of our beloved Warrior coaches, Josh Curtis. Josh passed away this past week in Florida, heroically saving his son and niece from a dangerous rip current. His selfless actions were a reflection of the man he was—brave, loving, and devoted to those he cared about.

"Josh was an Army veteran, a family man, a coach, and a friend to so many in our community. His impact on the Warrior family was immediate and lasting. His son had just completed his first year of football, and Josh was preparing to take on the role of head coach for our Mighty Mites this upcoming season. His passion, leadership, and kindness will be deeply missed on and off the field.

"As we mourn this heartbreaking loss, we ask our community to rally around the Curtis family during this unimaginable time. If you’re able, please consider donating to support them."

You can donate to the GoFundMe page by