US Tourist Rescued After Being Trapped by Fence in Bahamas Surf
A 60-year-old woman visiting from New York was pulled into rough surf and pinned against a temporary construction fence on Cabbage Beach, prompting a dramatic rescue by bystanders and lifeguards.
A tourist from New York was rescued from the ocean in the Bahamas after being swept into rough surf and trapped by a temporary construction fence on Cabbage Beach. The 60-year-old woman, whose identity was not released, was walking along the shore when large waves pulled her into the water.
The temporary fence, erected for construction, prevented her from escaping the rising waves. Witnesses captured the moment the woman struggled to stay afloat as she was pulled further out to sea. Two lifeguards and multiple onlookers rushed to her aid, battling the waves to reach her.
As the rescue team pulled the woman towards shore, Good Samaritans lifted a section of the fence to allow her to be brought to higher ground. Emergency responders arrived shortly after to assess her condition.
The incident was shared on social media by Dis We Beach, an advocacy group promoting open access to Bahamian beaches. The group highlighted that the fence poses a public safety hazard and noted that even after the rescue, lifeguards were working to prevent other tourists from walking near the obstruction.
Selina Archer, founder of Dis We Beach, stated that the rescue occurred during a protest against the fence. She described vendors on the beach reacting quickly to help, alongside lifeguards.
Vendors have previously protested the fence, citing negative impacts on their businesses. Beach access advocates have also raised concerns about public safety risks and restricted access to the shoreline.
Lincoln Deal, Member of Parliament for Free Town, witnessed the rescue and joined calls for the fence's removal. He emphasized that Cabbage Beach should remain accessible to the Bahamian people and that vendors deserve clarity and protection.
In response, Zane Lightbourn, the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, issued a statement affirming the government's support for beach access. He explained that the temporary fence was intended to protect the public during construction, but the developer had not provided adequate notice for its erection. Lightbourn added that the government has requested the fence's removal and will have it taken down if the developer fails to comply.
"The Government's position is clear: Beach restoration can proceed, but the process must respect the Bahamian people and the conditions under which approval was granted," the statement concluded.
