Teen drowns at Gonubie river mouth after lifeguards sign off

A tragic incident unfolded at the Gonubie river mouth when three boys got into difficulty while swimming after Buffalo City Metro Municipality (BCMM) lifeguards had already signed off for the day—leaving the beach unsupervised. One of the boys, aged 13, drowned, while the other two survived the ordeal.

The incident has raised renewed concern over beach safety ahead of the festive season, with many residents shocked that such a tragedy occurred just days before extended lifeguard hours are set to resume.

BCMM spokesperson Bongani Fuzile confirmed the drowning and said the three children entered the water during a period when seasonal lifeguards were not yet operating on full holiday schedules.

Children Enter Water After Lifeguards Left

According to early reports and community witnesses, the three boys had been swimming near the river mouth late in the afternoon, shortly after BCMM’s lifeguards had ended their shift for the day. Daily lifeguard coverage currently operates on limited hours until December, when full festive-season staffing begins.

Fuzile said the boys encountered trouble in the water, which can be particularly unpredictable at the river mouth due to strong currents, shifting sandbanks and tidal pull.

“According to what we have gathered, three boys got into trouble while they were swimming at Gonubie Beach at a time when our lifeguards had already left. BCMM’s seasonal lifeguards will officially start in December, where they will be working extended hours,” he said.

He further noted that it is believed the children entered the water after the lifeguards had completed their duties.

“These kids might have gone out while the guards had already left,” Fuzile explained.

Emergency Response and Tragic Outcome

Residents who were nearby reportedly alerted emergency services when they noticed the boys struggling. Paramedics arrived quickly and worked to stabilise the two survivors.

“One of the boys required medical attention, while the other two were stable. Unfortunately, the one who needed urgent medical assistance did not make it,” Fuzile confirmed.

BCMM has since extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, describing the loss of a young life as deeply heartbreaking.

Municipality Urges Caution Ahead of Festive Season

The municipality used the moment to remind residents that water safety is critical—especially during periods when lifeguards are not on full duty.

BCMM emphasized that extended lifeguard shifts, which include longer hours and full daily coverage, will only come into force from early December as part of the annual festive-season safety plan.

The city urged all beachgoers to:

• Avoid swimming after lifeguards have left for the day

• Keep a close eye on children at all times

• Be aware of dangerous tides, especially at river mouths

• Only swim in designated bathing areas

• Call emergency services immediately at the first sign of trouble

With thousands of people expected to flock to Eastern Cape beaches over the holiday period, BCMM said it is committed to increasing visibility and safety once the official holiday deployment begins.

Community Shaken by Tragedy

Gonubie residents expressed sorrow and concern following the incident, noting that the river mouth is known for its hazardous currents. Many called for enhanced signage warning swimmers of danger zones, particularly for children who may not fully understand the risks.

While lifeguards play a crucial role in saving lives, community members stressed that parents and guardians must maintain strict supervision when visiting coastal areas—especially during the build-up to December when holiday crowds begin earlier each year.

The drowning serves as a sobering reminder that safety precautions are essential, even during ordinary afternoons where beaches may appear calm.

Festive-Season Water Safety Campaign

BCMM confirmed that its festive readiness programme will include:

• Full deployment of seasonal lifeguards across beaches

• Extended lifeguard working hours

• Increased safety patrols

• Public awareness campaigns focused on drowning prevention

• Signage upgrades in high-risk zones

The municipality said its priority is preventing any further loss of life as the busy holiday period approaches.

As investigations continue, the Eastern Cape community mourns the life of a young boy lost far too soon, while authorities prepare to intensify safety measures at coastal areas across the metro.