Chatham County deputy, family rescue swimmers near Ocean Isle Beach Pier

OCEAN ISLE BEACH, N.C. (WTVD) -- A Chatham County sheriff's deputy vacationing with his family sprang into action over Easter weekend to rescue two young swimmers in distress near the Ocean Isle Beach Pier.

Deputy Herbie Stubbs noticed the swimmers struggling after they drifted into deep water and became pinned against the pier's pilings, unable to make it back to shore. As his wife called 911, Stubbs entered the water along with his son, Chandler Stubbs, 24, and family friend Markus Coats, 23.

The three formed a human chain in the strong current, working together to guide the swimmers safely back to shore. The water near the pier was over their heads, and barnacle-covered pilings caused cuts and scrapes to both the rescuers and the swimmers. None of the injuries were serious.

"The current was extremely strong," Stubbs said. "In these situations, you can't get worked up. That's what gets you in trouble."

Once on shore, the swimmers were evaluated by medical professionals and did not need to be taken to a hospital. Among those assisting were Stubbs' daughter, who is a nurse, and a doctor who happened to be on the beach at the time.

About 200 people gathered on the beach as the rescue unfolded.

According to the Chatham County Sheriff's Office, a witness described the moment by saying: "Herbie and his sons jumped in the ocean and swam out to the boys and got them to shore while 911 was called... By the time I had run to get the rescue float, Herbie and his sons were almost back to shore with the boys."

Stubbs has served with the Chatham County Sheriff's Office for 19 years and currently works as a student resource officer at Seaforth High School.

"When someone needs help, you just go," he said.