Tragic Occurrence at Nags Head Beach

On July 3, 2024, tragedy struck Nags Head, a beach destination located in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, when three swimmers were reported in distress. Among them was 18-year-old Ibrahim Salam Sankoh from Columbus, Ohio, who was later pronounced deceased at The Outer Banks Hospital.

Details about the Incident

According to an issued news release, it was around 2:51 p.m. when Nags Head’s Fire and Rescue and Police departments were dispatched to the Gull Street public beach access, found on the 7100 block of South Virginia Dare Trail. The authorities were alerted to three swimmers that were struggling in the water.

Fortunately, two of these swimmers were able to return to the shore. One of the swimmers was assisted by a Nags Head lifeguard, and both individuals were quickly transported to The Outer Banks Hospital for a medical assessment. Regrettably, the third swimmer, later identified as Ibrahim Sankoh, remained missing.

Efforts to Locate the Missing Swimmer

A request for aerial support was made to facilitate the search. However, before its arrival, a Nags Head police officer succeeded in locating Sankoh through the deployment of a drone. Guided by the drone’s observations, Nags Head lifeguards managed to bring Sankoh back to the shore.

Once on land, the unresponsive Sankoh was immediately provided with medical assistance by Dare County’s Emergency Medical Services and was transported to The Outer Banks Hospital. Despite the immediate response and the ensuing medical intervention, Sankoh sadly succumbed and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Aftermath and Public Sympathies

The name of the deceased was not immediately released following the incident. Four days later, on July 8, the information was publicly shared, identifying the deceased as the 18-year-old Ohio resident, Ibrahim Salam Sankoh.

The Town of Nags Head extended its condolences to the bereaved family and friends of Sankoh. They appreciated Kill Devil Hills Ocean Rescue for their assistance during the incident. As this tragic event starkly showcases the potential dangers of ocean swimming, local residents and tourists are urged to educate themselves about water and beach safety by visiting LovetheBeachRespecttheOcean.com.