AUGUSTA () – Sunday afternoon, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Sergeant Darrell Grooms of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, intervened to rescue a father and son struggling in a fast-moving current, during his routine patrol at the Lock and Dam behind 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.

Recognizing the danger, Grooms called for assistance over his radio. He instructed the father to grab an overhanging tree branch, providing him a temporary hold.

Meanwhile, passing by, Anthony Caruso of Augusta, acted swiftly along with another man who wished to remain anonymous as they retrieved a rope and joined Grooms in reaching 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.