Two Children Among Those Critically Injured in Perdido Key Water Rescue Incident

R. Ken Cooper • April 6, 2023

Rip Currents at Johnson Beach in Perdido Key Lead to Life-Threatening Incident

Rip Currents at Johnson Beach in Perdido Key Lead to Life-Threatening Incident

Perdido Key, Fla. - (OBA) - A water rescue at Johnson Beach in Perdido Key led to three people, including two children, being airlifted to the hospital in critical condition. The incident occurred when four individuals were swept over 100 yards out to sea by rip currents at an unguarded portion of the beach.


Three good Samaritans jumped into the water to assist the struggling swimmers, ultimately bringing them back to shore. As a result of the incident, three of the victims were in critical condition, while the fourth was admitted to the hospital in serious condition.


According to the battalion chief, yellow flags were flying at the beach at the time of the rescue, indicating moderate surf and currents. Red flags are flying in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

Several agencies participated in the rescue, Escambia Fire, Perdido Fire, and Orange Beach Fire.

Share this article w/ Friends...

Gulf Shores Airport Hosts Emergency Drill Today
By OBA Staff April 29, 2025
Gulf Shores International Airport is holding a full-scale emergency drill on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. The event is part of a federally required test of the airport’s emergency response plan.
Gulf Shores Detectives Track Down Family of Mysterious Seaside Urn
By OBA Staff April 29, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – A decorated urn containing human ashes washed up on Gulf Shores beach this past week, starting a mystery that local police have now solved. The container was discovered by people walking along the shore on West Beach on April 17.
Orange Beach’s Trailhead Challenge Encourages May Hikes
By R. Ken Cooper April 29, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Orange Beach Parks and Recreation is inviting the community to take part in its State Park Trailhead Challenge. The event encourages outdoor activity and exploration. Participants will complete four designated walking routes for a total of 15 miles. The program highlights trails on the east side of Gulf State Park.
Churchill Downs photo by Allison Marlow
By Allison Marlow April 29, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Fabulous fashions, delicious cocktails, a week of partying – sounds a little like Mardi Gras, doesn’t it? But this celebration is the Kentucky Derby, the oldest, continuously running sports event in the United States. Since its first run in 1875, the event has been held the first weekend in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, despite wars, the Great Depression or the spread of Covid-19.
Gulf Shores NCAA Volleyball Tournament
By OBA Staff April 29, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Gulf Shores is preparing for a busy month with two major events at the Gulf Shores Public Beach. The NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship and the Sand In My Boots Music Festival are both coming to town in May. City officials are making changes to parking and beach access to help with the crowds. According to the City of Gulf Shores, residents and visitors should plan ahead for closures and detours.
Foley Police
By OBA Staff April 28, 2025
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – A Foley police investigation helped lead to the sentencing of two men in a counterfeit gold and silver scheme. The men conspired with a minor to sell fake precious metals across Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. Victims lost more than $120,000 buying fake items. The investigation began when a Foley victim contacted police in 2023.
Things to do on the Gulf Coast This Week
By Jessica A. Taylor April 28, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – As the Gulf Coast transitions into mid-spring, the week of April 28th through May 4th offers a variety of events and experiences that capture the region’s unique blend of culture, cuisine, and community. From savoring coastal flavors at local eateries to celebrating time-honored traditions like hot air balloon rides and Kentucky Derby festivities, the Gulf Coast invites residents and visitors to explore its rich offerings. Whether you’re browsing for coastal treasures, enjoying a wine-paired dinner for a good cause, or immersing yourself in the arts, this week promises opportunities to connect with the area’s laid-back charm and lively spirit.
Gulf Shores Public Beach
By OBA Staff April 28, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – The Gulf Shores City Council will meet Tuesday, April 29, at 4 p.m. (instead of their normal Monday meeting) to review an agenda that includes technology upgrades, professional service agreements, and community recognitions.
Orange Beach Hosts Leadership League for Community Day
By OBA Staff April 28, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Orange Beach welcomed members of the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber's Coastal Alabama Leadership League (C.A.L.L.) on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, for Orange Beach Day. The group toured the city and experienced hands-on demonstrations.
Sunset and Full Moon Paddles Planned in Orange Beach
By OBA Staff April 27, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Orange Beach will host three Full Moon Paddle events this summer at the Wind and Water Learning Center, located behind the Orange Beach Public Library at 26267 Canal Road.
Show More