Robert W. Wright, 29, machine operator, died as the result of attempting to save Naomi M. Lyons, 30, from drowning, Lower Bank, New Jersey, July 17, 1955. Mrs. Lyons fainted and toppled into deep water in the Mullica River from a low pier beneath a bridge. She drifted 160 feet from the bank in a strong tidal current. Wright, who was fishing at the pier, immediately entered the water and swam toward Mrs. Lyons. He made rapid progress for 30 feet but then slowed appreciably. He continued 20 feet toward Mrs. Lyons but did not overtake her. When Wright, swimming at an angle to the current, was within 20 feet of another bridge pier, he was submerged briefly and then sank and was drowned. Another man swam 75 feet to Mrs. Lyons but could make no headway towing her against the current. Following a struggle, they drifted apart. A youth who dived from the bridge was stricken with cramps after progressing 15 feet and discontinued his attempt to give aid. The operator of a motorboat reached the youth, the man, and Mrs. Lyons, who clung to the craft as it was steered to the bank. Mrs. Lyons, who was fatigued and nauseated, was treated for shock and recovered. Wright’s body was recovered in an hour. 43541-4001
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