Cairo: An 18-year-old Egyptian died after rescuing six people from drowning off the coast of Alexandria, turning what began as a heroic rescue into a tragedy.

According to local authorities, Ziad Mohamed Ahmed Mahmoud spotted several people struggling in the water after strong waves carried them away from the shoreline at Bitash Beach in the city’s Agami district.

Without hesitation, he entered the sea and managed to bring the six people safely back to shore. However, as he attempted to return himself, he was overpowered by the waves and swept out to sea.