Two teenagers tragically lost their lives after being rescued from the waters off New York City's Coney Island Beach and rushed to Coney Island Hospital in critical condition, according to authorities.

The incident unfolded shortly after 8 p.m. on Friday when FDNY officials received distress calls reporting three individuals needing rescue in the waters near Coney Island in Brooklyn. Following an extensive search lasting over an hour, emergency responders successfully retrieved two teens from the water — an 18-year-old and a 17-year-old, both females.

Despite extensive efforts to save them, the sisters succumbed to their injuries at the hospital overnight, as confirmed by law enforcement sources. Their identities have not been disclosed pending family notification.

Initially, divers were also deployed in search of a man believed to be in his 20s, reported missing in the water. However, police later clarified there was no third missing swimmer.

The tragic incident at Coney Island Beach follows another drowning last month at Jacob Riis Park, underscoring ongoing concerns about water safety, particularly regarding fatalities linked to rip currents. Similar incidents have occurred in Florida, including the recent drowning of a Pennsylvania couple at Stuart Beach and the loss of three men from Alabama at Panama City Beach, all attributed to rip currents.

Authorities and experts have highlighted the dangers posed by rip currents, advising individuals caught in them to remain calm, signal for assistance, and swim parallel to the shore rather than against the current until safely out of its pull.

Rip currents are powerful, fast-moving channels of water that can pull swimmers away from shore and into deeper waters. They are commonly found along ocean coastlines, including beaches like Coney Island and Jacob Riis Park, where the flow of water returns seaward from the shore. These currents are often unpredictable and can catch even experienced swimmers off guard.

In response to the recent tragedies, local authorities have emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting water conditions. Beachgoers are urged to check weather forecasts and beach advisories before heading into the water, particularly during times of increased rip current risk. Signs posted along beaches provide guidance on identifying rip currents and what to do if caught in one.

The tragic loss of the two teenagers has deeply impacted their community and serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of water hazards. Families, friends, and the broader public mourn the loss of young lives cut short by this heartbreaking accident.

Efforts to enhance water safety education and awareness are ongoing, with community organizations and local officials collaborating to promote swimming safety. Programs aimed at teaching beachgoers about rip currents, water currents, and safety protocols are crucial in preventing future tragedies.

Furthermore, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine if any additional measures can be implemented to improve beach safety protocols and emergency response procedures.

The New York City Parks Department, along with the NYPD Harbor Unit and FDNY Marine Unit, routinely patrol beaches during peak times to monitor water conditions and provide assistance as needed. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure the safety of beach visitors and mitigate risks associated with swimming in open waters.

As the summer season progresses, beach safety remains a priority for coastal communities nationwide. Public awareness campaigns, lifeguard training programs, and enhanced beach signage are critical components of comprehensive water safety initiatives aimed at reducing drowning incidents and improving response times in emergencies.

In memory of the two teenagers who lost their lives at Coney Island Beach, community leaders and advocates continue to advocate for greater awareness and resources to prevent future tragedies. The impact of their loss resonates deeply, prompting calls for sustained efforts to educate the public and enhance safety measures at popular beach destinations.

The families of the victims, supported by community outreach efforts and counseling services, are navigating profound grief and loss in the aftermath of this devastating event. Counseling services and support networks are available to assist those affected by the tragedy, offering emotional support and guidance during this difficult time.

Moving forward, authorities are committed to learning from this tragedy to strengthen water safety protocols and emergency response strategies. By raising awareness, improving preparedness, and fostering a culture of safety at beaches and waterfronts, communities can work together to prevent future water-related fatalities and ensure a safer environment for all beachgoers.

In remembrance of the lives lost, advocates continue to push for enhanced beach safety measures and increased public education on rip currents and other water hazards. Through collaborative efforts and ongoing initiatives, communities strive to honor the memory of those affected by tragedies at Coney Island Beach and other coastal areas across the country.