A woman, described by her family as a “devoted mother” and “compassionate friend,” died while attempting to save her drowning son.
Shaunna Jernigan, 35, and her 14-year-old son, Timothy Jernigan, were found dead after drowning on July 9 at Bertie Beach in North Carolina, according to a statement from the Bertie County Sheriff’s Office.
Officials responded to a report of a drowning at 5:41 p.m. local time. When first responders arrived, they discovered that the mother and son were drowning, according to the statement.
Shaunna’s 11-year-old daughter was saved from the water during the incident. The victims were approximately 150 yards from the shore.
“Life-saving measures were done on the mother and son, but unfortunately, they did not survive,” investigators stated.
The 11-year-old girl claimed in her initial statement to officers that she and her mother were floating on an inflatable while her brother was swimming. Timothy,” according to her, “could no longer feel the bottom of the beach and became distressed.”
Shaunna then entered the water to save her teenage son, but “also became distressed,” the girl added.
“Our community mourns with the families and friends of the victims,” the sheriff’s office stated. “Please pray for our family, friends, community, and first responders during this difficult time. Resources have been made available to the family and first responders.
Shaunna was described as “a devoted mother, compassionate friend, and cherished member of her community” in her obituary.
“Shaunna’s tragic death occurred during an act of profound heroism: she attempted to save her beloved son, Lil Tim, from drowning. “They are now reunited in eternal peace,” the obituary stated.
Shaunna, who worked as a first responder for Bertie County EMS, is survived by her two children, husband, mother, and sister.
Timothy, known as Lil Tim, was an incoming freshman at Bertie High School, according to his obituary.
A fundraiser has been launched to assist the Jernigan family with unexpected expenses.
“Your support will have a significant impact on their lives as they grieve and begin to heal. “Let us come together as a community to show the Jernigan family that they are not alone during this difficult time,” the fundraising page says.
