AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - A Richmond County sergeant and a few good Samaritans helped rescue a dad and his son at the Lock and Dam Park behind Augusta Regional Airport on Father’s Day.

While on patrol, Sergeant Darrell Grooms saw a pair struggling in a fast-moving current around 12:30 p.m. Sunday.

Grooms saw a man enter the water to retrieve a fishing pole, and current overwhelmed him.

His son also entered the water to help but soon found himself clinging to a waterlogged piling.

That’s when Grooms sprung into action.

He instructed the father to grab an overhanging tree branch.

Meanwhile, Anthony Caruso, of Augusta, and another passerby, who wishes to remain anonymous, saw the situation, and acted swiftly by retrieving a rope and joined Grooms in reaching the son.

Together, they pulled him safely to shore.

Grooms then went into the water along with the second man, tethered to the rope held by Caruso. Working together, they pulled the father back to safety.

Both the father and son were examined by Augusta Fire-Rescue and Central EMS and transported to the hospital for further evaluation.

“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,” said Grooms.

Sheriff Eugene Brantley provided a statement on the courageous act.

“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 Brantley.

Grooms has been a member of the sheriff’s office since 1990.

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