A surfer was rescued Sunday afternoon from rough waters off South Beach after bystanders spotted him in distress near South Pointe Park Pier.
Cellphone video recorded near the pier shows the man struggling in heavy surf and wind. Jawad Aflak, who was out for his weekly run, said he first noticed a surfboard flying into the air, then realized it was attached to a surfer being tossed by waves and pushed against the rocks.
Aflak said the surfer appeared unable to stand. He and other witnesses on shore called emergency responders, and Aflak tried to keep the man informed that help was coming. He estimated the surfer was in the water for about five to 10 minutes.
The surfer was brought to safety. His identity has not been released, and as of Monday afternoon his condition was unknown. Aflak said he was thankful for the quick response from first responders.
