A Californian family were swept out to sea in 3 metre waves (10 foot surf) as they tried to rescue their dog Fran from the cold dangerous surf, at Big Lagoon beach in California.

The tragedy happened on the 26th November 2012, while Howard Kuljian and his family were out walking with their dog Fran on an overcast morning at Big Lagoon beach. They were throwing a stick for Fran to fetch at the water’s edge, when she was suddenly swallowed by a wave. Howard’s 16 year old son Gregory ran to save the family dog, but was taken by the surf as well. Howard aged 54 followed to save Gregory, then his wife Mary Scott aged 57 followed him to save him and their son, while their 18 year old daughter Olivia and Gregory’s girlfriend watched in horror on the shore.

Howard Kuljian’s body washed ashore, and rescuers eventually retrieved Mary Scott’s body, while Fran their dog made it back to shore on her own. Gregory Kuljian is missing, presumed dead.

Family Swept To Sea – November 26th, 2012 KobiTV video: 

NEWS ABOUT THE KULJiAN FAMiLY DROWNiNG: 

• CBS NEWS: Family swept out to sea in Calif. trying to save dog in high surf
• The HERALD SUN NEWS: US family drowns in effort to save dog
•  The NEW ZEALAND HERALD: Family drowns trying to rescue dog
• The iNQUiSiTR: Couple Dies, Son Missing After Attempt To Save Dog From Drowning

Another incident of animal lovers drowning trying to save their pet: Massachusetts couple dies trying to rescue dog from lake