Two American tourists died in the Bahamas after powerful currents swept a group of swimmers offshore Friday, according to the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
The victims, a 38-year-old man and a 40-year-old woman, were swimming with several others in waters near Bimini when the current carried them away.
Authorities said the group had entered an area marked by a warning about dangerous currents.
A nearby ferry managed to rescue some of the swimmers. However, police said the two American tourists were unresponsive when the vessel reached them.
A beach on the western side of North Bimini, including the popular stretch of three connected beaches in Alice Town. (iStock)
Bystanders performed CPR on both swimmers, but neither regained consciousness.
“Both victims were transported to the local clinic, where medical personnel continued life-saving efforts. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, both individuals were pronounced deceased by the attending physician shortly before 4:00 p.m.,” police said in a statement.
Illustrated map showing Bimini Island in the Bahamas. (iStock)
Police said there is no indication of foul play, though the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
An autopsy will be performed to establish the precise cause of death, authorities said.
Boats anchored near coral formations off North Bimini in the Bahamas on a sunny summer afternoon. (iStock)
News Media has contacted the Royal Bahamas Police Force for additional information.