Former Georgia Officer Dies a Hero Saving Swimmers from Deadly Rip Current
Anderson “Chase” Childers, 38 — a former Georgia police officer and one-time professional baseball player — lost his life Sunday afternoon off Pawleys Island, South Carolina, after diving into dangerous waters to rescue swimmers caught in a powerful rip current.
A Final Act of Courage
According to the Pawleys Island Police Department, Childers and another Good Samaritan rushed into the surf when they saw several people struggling against the current. Battling the churning waves, Childers managed to save a family of five — but the relentless ocean ultimately claimed his life.
“He died trying to save others,” the department wrote in a heartfelt tribute.
A Life of Service and Dedication
Born in Kennesaw, Georgia, Childers called Paulding County home and spent over three years serving with the Cobb County Police Department. Before his time in law enforcement, he excelled on the baseball diamond — starring at North Cobb Christian School and Georgia State University before being drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 2009. He went on to play in their minor league system.
The Orioles shared their condolences, saying, “We are saddened to learn of Chase’s passing and send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Tragedy in Front of His Family
The heartbreaking rescue unfolded before the eyes of his wife and their three children. In his last moments, Childers chose to fight for the lives of strangers, embodying the very definition of selflessness.
A GoFundMe campaign to support his family has already raised over $230,000, with tributes pouring in from friends, fellow officers, and teammates.
“In a heroic act, he saved a family of five during a crisis, putting their lives above his own,” the fundraiser reads. “Tragically, after giving everything, he could not stay above water and made the ultimate sacrifice in front of his wife and children. His bravery, kindness, and love will always be remembered.”