Man Drowns at Popular California Beach as Sister Shares Video of Dangerous Waves

Anthony Goode has been identified as the man who drowned Sunday morning at Playa del Rey beach, a popular Southern California destination. His sister, Verline Celestine, shared an emotional video of the treacherous waves that contributed to his death.

Celestine returned to the scene, near Lifeguard Tower 42, and captured footage of the rough surf. In the video, she expressed disbelief that Goode, who could not swim, had entered the water. "This is where my brother drowned at. Look how rough this water is going and he know he couldn’t swim. I can’t believe Anthony went and got in this water," she said.

A makeshift memorial was created on the beach in Goode's honor, with his name written in the sand, surrounded by candles and hand-drawn hearts. Celestine posted a tribute online, writing, "Rest N Paradise Brother you are at Pieces Brother. Yo Sister Love you dearly. I wasn’t ready Anthony Goode."

Los Angeles Fire Department crews responded to the incident around 8:18 a.m. Sunday. Lifeguards performed CPR after pulling Goode from the water, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected.

The drowning occurred as the Southern California coastline experienced powerful waves and dangerous weather conditions, attributed to the remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel. The storm had previously caused damage to Long Beach's historic waterfront boardwalk, leading to red-tagged structures and inaccessible areas due to unsafe conditions. The severe weather also brought high winds to the Inland Empire, causing damage to structures.