Florida Fisherman Uses Drone to Rescue Drowning Teen

Quick Thinking Saves Life at Pensacola Beach

On 15 May, a Florida shark fisherman saved a teenage girl trapped in a dangerous rip current, all without needing to go into the water.

Using his drone, he delivered a flotation device to the struggling teen as she was pulled farther from shore, capturing a dramatic rescue on video.

Reluctant Fisherman Turns Rescuer

After work, Andrew Smith nearly decided not to go fishing at Pensacola Beach. But persuaded by a friend, he went along, but soon faced an emergency.

About ten minutes after arriving, a girl ran up asking if anyone could swim. Despite Smith’s seizure disorder preventing him from swimming, he knew he had to act.

Drone Delivers Lifeline Amid Danger

Seeing the teen’s friend being dragged by the current, Smith realized he could not swim, but his drone could “swim” for him. He grabbed a flotation device and attempted to fly it out to the girl. His first attempt missed due to strong wind, but Smith didn’t give up.

Thanks to a second flotation device from a bystander, Smith carefully lowered the drone closer to the girl on the second try. She grabbed the device, climbed on, and began floating safely.

The entire moment was recorded by a witness who described the rescue as unlike anything he had seen.

Emergency Responders Arrive in Time

Smith’s quick thinking and persistence saved the girl’s life, as first responders arrived five minutes later and confirmed her survival.

Medical checks showed she was unharmed and sent home.

Viewer Reactions

Users commended the fisherman for his clever use of his drone.

One user from the area mentioned the fisherman’s purpose of owning the drone.

Hero Praised by Family and Witnesses

The teen’s father repeatedly thanked Smith and called him his guardian angel. Meanwhile, onlookers hailed Smith as a true hero for using innovation and courage to save a life.