– Birmingham-area fathers killed in Panama City Beach rip current
– Men killed in Panama City Beach rip current were inseparable.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : A weekend getaway to Florida ended in tragedy for three young fathers from the Birmingham area who lost their lives after being caught in a rip current at Panama City Beach.
The victims have been identified as Harold Denzel Hunter, aged 25, Jemonda Ray, aged 24, and Marius Richardson, also aged 24. Ray and Richardson were cousins who were like brothers, while Hunter was a close friend. Their families are currently working to bring their loved ones back to Alabama for their final resting place.
Ray’s sister, Jayla Ray, expressed her deep sadness over the tragic outcome, stating, “I just wish the outcome was better than what it is. I’m just glad they were found and they’re able to come home.”
The three men, along with three others, had arrived in Panama City Beach on Friday to stay at an Airbnb rental. They wasted no time in heading to the water, entering the sea around 8 p.m. Unfortunately, they were swiftly swept away by a rip current near the Watercress Condominiums at 6201 Thomas Drive.
Despite rescue efforts, all three men were pulled from the water and rushed to local hospitals, where they tragically succumbed to their injuries. Ray, a father to a young son, had graduated from Jackson-Olin High School in Birmingham and was employed at Amazon.
His mother, Iris Richardson, is devastated by the loss of her son, whom she described as a caring and joyful individual who always brought smiles to those around him.
The tragic incident unfolded when the group of friends found themselves struggling in chest-deep water. Richardson explained, “The detective told me they were trying to make it back to shore, but the current got the best of them.”
Ray, who had a passion for football and was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan, had grown up alongside his cousin Marius since childhood. The two were inseparable, according to Richardson, who described them as “two peas in a pod.”
Marius Richardson, a graduate of Woodlawn High School, leaves behind his wife and a young son. Known for his hardworking nature and dedication to his family, he was remembered as a kind-hearted individual by those who knew him.
Hunter, a graduate of Minor High School, worked at Mavis Tires & Brakes and leaves behind two young children. His sister, Selina Black, fondly recalled his infectious laughter and love for music, describing him as the “life of the party.”
The families of the three men are struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss and have set up a GoFundMe page to help support Hunter’s family during this difficult time. Donations can be made to the fund here.
Sheriff Tommy Ford of the Bay County Sheriff’s Office expressed his condolences for the families of the victims and praised the efforts of first responders who worked tirelessly to rescue the young men. The community has come together in mourning the tragic loss of these three young fathers, and prayers are being offered for their families during this difficult time..
– Birmingham-area fathers killed Panama City Beach rip current
– Inseparable Birmingham-area fathers Panama City Beach rip current.
