In a heartbreaking incident, Tyrese Haynes, a 17-year-old basketball star at Waccamaw High School, tragically drowned while swimming near Litchfield By the Sea in Georgetown County, South Carolina. Tyrese was swept away on the afternoon of July 12, 2024, and after an extensive search effort, his body was found the following day at Huntington Beach State Park. His untimely death has left his family, friends, and the entire community in deep mourning.
The Incident
The tragedy struck on a warm summer afternoon when Tyrese Haynes decided to swim near Litchfield By the Sea. Known for his athletic prowess and warm personality, Tyrese was enjoying a day at the beach when he was swept away by the strong currents. Despite immediate efforts by those present and a widespread search involving multiple agencies, Tyrese could not be found until the following day.
The search effort was extensive and involved the cooperation of multiple agencies, including local law enforcement, search and rescue teams, and volunteers from the community. The search was a race against time, with everyone hoping for a miracle. Sadly, on July 13, 2024, the Georgetown County Coroner Chase Ridgeway confirmed that Tyrese’s body had been found near Huntington Beach State Park.
Community Response and Mourning
The news of Tyrese’s death has sent shockwaves through the community of Pawleys Island and beyond. Tyrese was not only a talented athlete but also a beloved figure known for his kindness and positive attitude. Friends, teammates, and community members gathered at The Pawleys Island Bakery to pray and mourn the loss of their loved one. The outpouring of grief and support from the community has been overwhelming, reflecting the deep impact Tyrese had on those around him.
A GoFundMe campaign was quickly set up to support Tyrese’s family during this difficult time. The campaign has raised over $27,000, a testament to the community’s love and support for the Haynes family. The funds will help cover funeral expenses and provide financial support to the family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Remembering Tyrese Haynes
Tyrese Haynes was more than just a basketball player. He was a young man full of promise, with a bright future ahead of him. He was known for his exceptional skills on the basketball court, where he was a standout player for Waccamaw High School. His dedication, hard work, and sportsmanship made him a role model for his peers and younger players.
Off the court, Tyrese was cherished for his warm personality and his ability to bring people together. He had a smile that could light up a room and a heart full of kindness. Friends and community members remember him fondly for his generosity, his infectious enthusiasm, and his unwavering support for others.
Statements from Officials
Georgetown County Coroner Chase Ridgeway provided an official statement confirming the tragic news: “Georgetown County Coroner Chase Ridgeway has confirmed that the body of Tyrese Haynes, 17, of Murrells Inlet was found near Huntington Beach State Park on Saturday, July 13th. Tyrese was swimming in the ocean when he went missing on Friday, July 12 near Litchfield By the Sea. An autopsy will be scheduled at MUSC in Charleston. Please keep the Haynes family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Moving Forward
As the community continues to come to terms with this tragic loss, plans are being made to honor Tyrese’s memory. A memorial service and various tributes are being organized to celebrate his life and the positive impact he had on so many people. The Waccamaw High School community is particularly affected, with plans for a memorial at the school and a tribute at an upcoming basketball game.
Tyrese’s family has expressed their deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and love they have received. They have requested privacy as they grieve and make arrangements for his funeral. The family plans to release an official obituary and details of the funeral service at a later date.
The Legacy of Tyrese Haynes
Tyrese Haynes’s legacy is one of kindness, talent, and an unbreakable spirit. He will be remembered not only for his achievements on the basketball court but also for the way he touched the lives of those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him.
The community of Pawleys Island and the broader Georgetown County area will continue to honor Tyrese’s memory by supporting his family and carrying forward the values he embodied. As they mourn this profound loss, they also celebrate the life of a remarkable young man who left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
The tragic death of Tyrese Haynes is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. His story is one of talent, kindness, and community spirit. As the community grieves, they also come together in solidarity, supporting each other through this difficult time. Tyrese’s legacy will continue to inspire and uplift, ensuring that his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.
In the words of his friends and family, Tyrese Haynes was a shining example of what it means to live with kindness and courage. His memory will be a guiding light, reminding everyone to live with compassion and to support one another through life’s challenges. As we remember Tyrese, we hold onto the lessons he taught us and the love he shared, ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.
