Former WWE star Shad Gaspard has been confirmed dead, after his body washed ashore at California's Venice Beach.
On Monday, the 39-year-old was reported missing, believed to have been caught in a rip and swept out to sea, while swimming with his son.
A lifeguard had seen the pair struggling at sea and set out to rescue them. He reached son Aryeh, who was closer to shore, and ensured he was safely back on the beach, then returned to help his father.
"His last few words were 'just secure my son, rescue my son,’" says Los Angeles Police Department's Chief Haskett.
The lifeguard saw a large wave force Gaspard under the water and he never resurfaced.
Gaspard was a member of the WWE’s Cryme Tyme duo. In 2008, the team allied with John Cena against rival JBL.
He was also an actor, appearing in 2015 movie Get Hard, with Kevin Hart and Will Ferrell, and Black Panther in 2018.
The WWE said it was saddened to learn of Gaspard's death and that he was "admired by friends and colleagues for his warmth and humour".
Friend and former wrestling colleague Dwayne Johnson, better known as 'The Rock', took to social media to express his condolences.
"Man, this is a tough one," says Johnson on Instagram. "A really tough one.
"Great guy. Your warrior spirit lives on through your son."
