‘Devoted’ Mother Dies Trying to Save Her Drowning Son at North Carolina Beach: ‘Act of Profound Heroism’

A woman, described by her family as a “devoted mother” and “compassionate friend,” died while trying to save her drowning son.

The bodies of Shaunna Jernigan, 35, and her 14-year-old son, Timothy Jernigan, were recovered after a drowning incident at Bertie Beach in North Carolina on July 9, according to a statement from the Bertie County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).

Officials responded to a report of someone drowning at 5:41 p.m. local time. Upon arrival, first responders discovered that the mother-and-son pair were drowning, the statement said.

Shaunna’s 11-year-old daughter was rescued from the water during the incident. The victims were about 150 yards from the shore.

“Life-saving measures were done on the mother and son, but unfortunately, they didn’t survive,” officials said. 

The 11-year-old girl claimed in an initial statement to officers that she and her mother were floating on an inflatable while her brother was swimming. She said Timothy “could no longer feel the bottom of the beach and became distressed.”

Shaunna then entered the water to rescue her teenage son and “also became distressed,” the girl added.

“Our community mourns with the family and friends of the victims,” the sheriff’s office said. “The family, friends, our community and first responders need your prayers 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 demise came during an act of profound heroism, as she attempted to save her beloved son, Lil Tim, from drowning. They are now reunited in eternal peace,” the obituary read. 

Shaunna, who worked as a first responder with Bertie County EMS, is survived by two children, her husband, and her mother and sister.

Timothy, nicknamed Lil Tim, was an incoming freshman at Bertie High School, according to his obituary. 

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A fundraiser has been created to help the Jernigan family with unexpected expenses.

“Your support will make a meaningful impact in their lives as they grieve and begin to heal. Let’s come together as a community to show the Jernigan family that they are not alone during this trying time,” the fundraising page reads.