News Summary
Saumen Kundu, a 49-year-old from Georgia, drowned while rescuing his son from a rip current at a Sea Pines beach. Despite the efforts of witnesses and emergency responders, Kundu could not be revived. This marks the fifth drowning in Beaufort County this summer, raising concerns about water safety and the need for heightened precautions. Local officials urge beachgoers to be vigilant and heed safety warnings to prevent further tragedies.
Beaufort County, South Carolina – Tragic Drowning of Georgia Man
Saumen Kundu, a 49-year-old man from Georgia, tragically drowned while rescuing his son at a beach in Sea Pines on Thursday, July 24, 2025. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Kundu was pronounced dead at approximately 7:51 PM at the scene after authorities responded to a 911 emergency call about swimmers in distress shortly before the incident.
Both Kundu and his son were caught in a rip current while swimming in the ocean. Two nearby witnesses heard their distress calls and bravely entered the water to assist them. The Fire and Rescue teams from Hilton Head Island, along with Shore Beach Services, responded quickly, successfully bringing both victims and the rescuers back to shore. However, despite immediate lifesaving efforts once Kundu was on land, he could not be revived.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the incident. Additionally, the consulate representing Kundu’s home country has expressed condolences regarding the drowning of the Indian national and is coordinating support for his family during this difficult time.
Increasing Drowning Incidents in Beaufort County
This incident marks the fifth drowning recorded in Beaufort County this summer. Previous drowning events include a father and son who were swept into rough waters off Hunting Island, leading to the father’s death, as well as two other fatalities involving a 69-year-old man drowning near Coligny Beach Park on June 30, and a 65-year-old photographer also drowning at Hunting Island State Park on July 1.
Local officials, including Mayor Alan Perry, noted Kundu’s selfless act of heroism in attempting to save his child during the tragic drowning incident. He highlighted the necessity for improved safety warnings at local beaches, particularly during times when lifeguards are not on duty. His remarks resonate with an increasing concern over water safety and the precautions that should be taken by beachgoers.
Safety Precautions Advised
Local authorities urge individuals to practice caution while enjoying the beach. Beachgoers are reminded to pay attention to warning flags posted at swimming sites and to prioritize safety measures such as using the buddy system when swimming. They are encouraged to heed local advisories and take responsibilities for their safety and that of their families in potentially dangerous water conditions.
The tragic death of Saumen Kundu highlights the inherent dangers of ocean swimming, especially concerning rip currents, which can pose significant risks even to seasoned swimmers. As the summer season continues, both local authorities and residents remain focused on minimizing risks and ensuring that beach environments are as safe as possible.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Drowning Incident at Hilton Head Island
Tragic Drowning Incident on Hilton Head Island
Tragic Drowning Incident on Hilton Head Island
Tragic Drowning Incident on Hilton Head Island
Tragic Drowning Incident on Hilton Head Island
Beaufort County Drowning Incident Claims Life of 49-Year-Old
Tragic Drowning Incident on Hilton Head Island
Tragic Drowning Incident on Hilton Head Island
Tragic Drownings Highlight Water Safety Risks in Hilton Head
Tragic Boat Crash Claims Lives of North Carolina Couple
Additional Resources
- WTOC: Leaders Discuss Water Safety After Several Drownings in Beaufort County
- Wikipedia: Drowning
- WJCL: Hilton Head Island Drowning Death
- Google Search: Drowning Safety Beaufort
- LiveMint: Hilton Head Drowning Indian Man Saumen Kundu Identified
- Google Scholar: Drowning Incidents South Carolina
- Island Packet: Local Drowning Investigations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drowning
- Hindustan Times: Hilton Head Drowning of Indian Man
- Google News: Drowning Hilton Head
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
