AUGUSTA () – On Sunday at around 12:30 p.m., Sergeant Darrell Grooms from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office stepped in to aid a father and son caught in a swift current while on his regular patrol at the Lock and Dam near Augusta Regional Airport.
Grooms saw a man enter the swollen waters to retrieve a fishing pole.
The current rapidly overwhelmed him.
In an attempt to help, his son, also entered the water but soon found himself clinging to a waterlogged piling.
Upon noticing the perilous situation, Grooms quickly requested help via his radio. He advised the father to grab onto a tree branch that was hanging overhead, offering him a temporary way to stay secure.
At the same time, Anthony Caruso from Augusta, along with another individual who chose to stay unnamed, took prompt action. They got a rope and worked together with Grooms to reach the son.
Together, they pulled the son safely to shore.
Grooms then went into the water along with the second man, tethered to the rope held by Caruso onshore.
Working together, they pulled the father back to safety.
Both father and son were promptly examined by Augusta Fire-Rescue and Central EMS and transported to the hospital for further evaluation.
Grooms stated, “Had it not been for the actions of both good Samaritans who stepped up immediately to assist, this could have ended tragically. I am proud of their selfless actions and the immediate assistance they both provided. God put us all in the right place at the right time. I have often had members of the public assist me in my duties and speaking on behalf of officers everywhere, we are grateful to have your support and assistance.”
Grooms has been a member of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office since February 1990.
Sheriff Gino Brantley provided the following statement:
“On this Father’s Day, I’m incredibly proud and grateful for Sergeant Darrell Grooms’ swift, selfless action—and equally for community member Anthony Caruso and our anonymous good Samaritan, whose courage helped bring this father and son to safety,” said Sheriff Gino Brantley. “This is just one of many untold good deeds our deputies perform daily protecting lives often in the most unexpected moments. Their unwavering commitment, alongside the bravery of local heroes who step up when lives are on the line, truly embodies the heart and spirit of public service in Richmond County. Sergeant Grooms has honored all of us today with his dedication to keeping our community safe.”
“I’d also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Caruso and the good Samaritan. Their quick thinking and readiness to assist speaks volumes about the strength of our community. Together, our deputies and citizens make Richmond County a safer place for all,” said Brantley.
