Tragedy struck on Father’s Day in Florida when a man lost his life while attempting to save his two young daughters from drowning at the beach near Fort Lauderdale, according to authorities.

Antwon Wilson, 33, was enjoying his day at the shoreline when he saw his children in trouble and rushed into the water to help them, police reports indicate.

“He got to his daughter and helped keep her afloat before he went underwater,” FLFR Battalion Chief Danny Moran told WSVN.

Rescue services had just vacated their stations 20 minutes earlier but responded quickly after hearing the distress calls.

“They arrived first, turned their trucks around, and became the primary rescue responders,” Moran said.

A bystander, Eslam Saad from Ohio, also jumped in to assist without hesitation.

“I didn’t think—just jumped in the water,” Saad told WSVN. He struggled against strong waves, swallowing water as he fought to stay afloat.

Saad reached one of Wilson’s daughters, calming her, and encouraged her to stay calm. He told her, “Please, do not panic. I will do my best to get you out.”

He instructed her to stand on his shoulder and then leap toward the shore, as reported by WTVJ. Saad said, “I think I did my best, and it’s a miracle I am here.”

Rescue crews eventually located Wilson, took him to shore, and administered CPR, but he was pronounced dead at the hospital. The daughter and Saad survived and were evaluated at Broward Health Medical Center. Saad was released, and the girl was reported to be responsive.

Saad expressed regret, saying he wished he could have done more. “When I got to the hospital, they told me Wilson had already passed,” he shared.