Rogue wave drags Orange County beachgoer into sea, triggers heart attack and rescue
A sudden large wave at Aliso Beach knocked Teresa Tran into the water, causing a cardiac event that required a helicopter evacuation.
Teresa Tran was enjoying a stroll with friends on Aliso Beach in Orange County when an unexpected rogue wave knocked her to the sand and then back into the surf. Repeated waves forced her and her companions to the ground, prompting lifeguards to wade in and attempt a rescue. During the effort Tran experienced a heart attack, and rescuers found her unconscious with a faint pulse before she vomited water and regained consciousness.
A helicopter was called, and she was airlifted to a local hospital where she was treated and later discharged to recover at home. Her daughter, Amanda Trinh, created a GoFundMe page to help pay for the airlift, hospital stays and other expenses not covered by insurance.
Why it matters
The incident underscores how sudden surf conditions can cause life-threatening emergencies even for experienced beachgoers.
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