More information has emerged about the tragic death of Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who drowned over the weekend while on a family trip to Costa Rica. The 54-year-old actor was swept away by a strong current at Playa Grande, and the Caribbean Guard has now confirmed that no lifeguard was on duty at the time of the incident.
In a Facebook statement, the volunteer lifeguard group explained that lifeguard resources had been redirected to other beaches following a string of recent water-related incidents nearby. They revealed Warner was pulled under quickly, and though bystanders rushed to help, he had no vital signs by the time they reached him. CPR was administered on the beach, but attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.
The group described Playa Grande as a dangerous beach known to local surfers, with warning signs posted in both English and Spanish. They emphasized that while the Caribbean Guard typically patrols the area, their attention had been diverted to Playa Negra and Chiquita Beach due to recent emergencies.
Calling the situation “deeply regrettable,” the organization used the moment to urge Costa Rica’s government and local authorities to step up support. “We do everything within our power. We’ve saved numerous lives in recent years… but if we don’t have government help, clear public policies and strong support from local entrepreneurs, this will keep happening,” the statement read.
The cause of death has been ruled as asphyxiation by submersion by Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency. PEOPLE also reported that a second man caught in the same current as Warner is currently in critical condition.
Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, is being mourned across the entertainment industry and by fans worldwide.
