What should have been a joyful Easter holiday turns into a family’s worst nightmare when a 15-year-old boy drowns while attempting to save a little girl. The devastating incident occurred Sunday afternoon during a family outing.
The teen, Zedain Wilson, and his family had visited the Swift River in Hope Bay, Portland, according to the Jamaica Observer. The family function went horribly wrong when a girl got swept up in a strong current.
The deceased, who was wearing cut-off blue jeans, a black wristwatch, and a ring, noticed the girl struggling in the water. Without hesitation, the teen jumped into the water to assist her, according to police. Authorities said that while Zedain was guiding the girl to safety, a powerful current swept him away.
Zedain saved the girl from drowning, but he lost his life in the process. The local news outlet reported that he had drowned near a quarry at Caenwood. The Hope Bay Police were alerted, and when officers arrived at the scene, several men were in the river, desperately searching for Wilson.
When Zedain was found in the water, he had to be rushed to the hospital because he was unresponsive. The teen, a student of Spanish Town Comprehensive High School in St Catherine, was pronounced dead at the Port Antonio Hospital.
The incident has ignited an emotional response from Jamaicans on social media. On Instagram, users expressed sorrow and a growing concern about a recurring pattern of holiday drownings. For decades, there have been talks about fatalities rising during holidays, but some chalk it up to being nothing more than an old superstition.
One commenter wrote, “Every Easter or holiday a teenager drown. Omg.” Another shared, “From I was younger I’ve always realized when it’s Easter holiday, people drown more than any other time.”
Others highlighted the dangers of the Swift River, which is said to have a reputation for being particularly hazardous to non-locals. Others also called for water safety education and increased awareness during public holidays. Another added, “We need more swimming lessons for our kids.”