Mother dies trying to save her 2 sons after they were swept away while snorkeling

(Gray News) - A British woman visiting the Bahamas with her family died attempting to rescue her two sons after they were swept out to sea.

According to the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the 36-year-old was snorkeling with her husband and two sons near the southern point of the island. Police reported a strong current swept the children away and the woman, in an effort to rescue them, “also was swept away.”

She was later rescued and taken to a ferry dock where CPR was administered before she was transported to a local medical clinic. Police reported a local doctor pronounced her dead “despite efforts to save her life.”

The BBC identified the woman as Leanne Gregory from Stapleford in Nottinghamshire. According to People, her husband, Nathan Gregory, set up a GoFundMe to raise funds for their two sons.

“This loss is unimaginable for our family, she was our foundation, our support, she made us who we are,” Nathan Gregory said, adding that the couple were childhood sweethearts and had been together for 22 years.

In the GoFundMe, Nathan Gregory described the moments after their sons were swept away.

He said that Leanne Gregory held their son until he was rescued but “didn’t have the energy to save herself.” He recounted that a “freak wave” swept her away from the boat that was helping them.

“I just have to be thankful for the hero she was in life and in death, and totally grateful for the fact my boys got out safely,” Nathan Gregory said. “Mainly thankful to my brave, amazing wife for keeping my boy above the water even as you were sinking ... you will be forever loved by everyone you knew, and I know you will continue to watch over us.”

The Royal Bahamas Police Force said an autopsy will be conducted.