Stephen O’Callaghan, 55, died saving six people from a rip current at Inch Beach, Ireland, on August 23, 2024.

Stephen O’Callaghan, 55, of Cork, died on August 23, 2024, after rescuing six people, including children and adults, from a sudden rip current at Inch Beach, County Cork. He saved two boys, with help from his nephew and surf club members, while others were pulled to safety by bystanders. Despite swift emergency response, O’Callaghan suffered acute respiratory failure from drowning. A coroner’s inquest recorded an accidental death verdict, praising his heroic actions that likely prevented multiple fatalities. Warning signs for rip currents were present, and witnesses described dangerous, choppy conditions. O’Callaghan, a customs official and avid climber, was remembered as a selfless hero who had previously saved others.