A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Gqeberha when 17-year-old Curtis Samson lost his life while attempting to rescue a friend from drowning in the Swartkops River on Friday, 10 October.
According to reports, Curtis and a group of friends were fishing along the riverbank when one of them accidentally slipped into the water. Without hesitation, Curtis jumped in to help his struggling friend. Sadly, while the friend managed to reach safety, Curtis disappeared beneath the surface and never resurfaced.
Emergency services, including the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), were alerted immediately. NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon said rescue teams, supported by local police and community members, launched a search that lasted the entire weekend. Despite their best efforts, Curtis’s body was only recovered on Monday, 13 October.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that their Airwing helicopter located two bodies in separate areas of the Swartkops River during the search. One was identified as Curtis, while the other remains unidentified. Both bodies were retrieved by police divers, and two inquest dockets have been opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli explained that the group of teenagers had been spending the day fishing and swimming near the riverbank when the accident occurred. Authorities believe strong underwater currents may have contributed to the tragedy.
“The bravery shown by Curtis in trying to save his friend is deeply moving,” Nkohli said. “It’s a reminder of how quickly water-related incidents can turn deadly, even for strong swimmers.”
The incident has sparked renewed calls for water safety awareness, particularly among young people who frequent rivers and dams during weekends and school holidays. Local residents have also urged authorities to improve signage and safety measures in high-risk areas along the Swartkops River, which has seen several drownings over the years.
Community members and friends have described Curtis as a kind and selfless young man who loved fishing and helping others. Tributes have poured in on social media, with many calling him a hero for his courageous final act.
“Curtis didn’t think twice about saving his friend,” one family member shared. “That’s who he was — always willing to help, no matter the risk.”
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a young life cut short by a selfless act of bravery. Curtis Samson’s story stands as a poignant reminder of both the dangers of open water and the depth of compassion that drives ordinary people to extraordinary heroism.
His family, friends, and the wider Gqeberha community continue to grieve, remembering Curtis not for how he died — but for how he lived: courageously, generously, and with a heart full of love for others.
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