Chase Childers was a 38-year-old former professional baseball player and police officer who tragically died on July 13, 2025, while heroically rescuing swimmers caught in a rip current at Pawleys Island, South Carolina. During a family vacation, Childers responded to a distress call and entered the water to assist a family of five in danger. While the others returned safely, Childers was swept away by the current and his body was recovered approximately 90 minutes later.
Born in Nashville, Tennessee, and raised in Kennesaw, Georgia, Childers was an accomplished athlete and public servant. He played baseball at North Cobb Christian School and Georgia State University, setting several records at Georgia State, including all-time leader in walks and second in sacrifice hits . In 2009, he signed with the Baltimore Orioles and played two seasons in their minor league system.
After his baseball career, Childers served as a police officer in Cobb County, Georgia, from 2011 to 2014. He was honored with a Life Saving Award in 2012 for his dedication to public service . He is survived by his wife, Nataley, and their three children.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Family Background
Chase Anderson Childers was born on August 21, 1986, in Nashville, Tennessee, to Charles and Nancy Childers. He had a younger brother named Chance. The family later moved to Kennesaw, Georgia, where Chase would spend much of his youth.
High School Years
During his time at North Cobb Christian High School, Chase excelled in baseball. He played a pivotal role in leading his team to a state championship in 2003. His exceptional performance earned him All-State honors and recognition as Team MVP in both 2003 and 2004.
College Education
Chase attended Georgia State University, where he continued to shine in baseball. He became the all-time leader in walks with 120 and ranked second in sacrifice hits with 28. Additionally, he recorded over 200 hits and 132 runs batted in, placing him among the top players in the school’s history. His achievements earned him a spot on the All-CAA Third-Team and the title of CAA Player of the Week during his senior season.
Professional Baseball Career
Minor League Baseball
In 2009, Chase was signed by the Baltimore Orioles and played two seasons in their minor league system. He played second base and shortstop for teams in Florida and West Virginia. Despite his promising start, injuries led to the end of his baseball career in 2010.
Law Enforcement Career
Transition to Policing
After retiring from baseball, Chase turned his focus to law enforcement. He joined the Cobb County Police Department in Georgia, where he served as a uniformed patrol officer from 2011 to 2014.
Life Saving Award
In 2012, Chase was honored with the Cobb County Police Department Life Saving Award for his dedication to public service and his role in saving several lives during his tenure.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Chase married Nataley, his high school sweetheart, and together they had three children: Barrett, Brooks, and Bella Mae. The family resided in Dallas, Georgia, and enjoyed vacations together, including a trip to Pawleys Island, South Carolina, in July 2025.
Heroic Act and Death
The Incident
On July 13, 2025, while vacationing with his family at Pawleys Island, Chase responded to a distress call from a woman whose family was caught in a rip current. Without hesitation, he entered the water to assist the struggling swimmers. Chase and another good Samaritan managed to bring the family to safety. However, during the rescue, Chase was swept away by the current. His body was recovered approximately 90 minutes later by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Legacy
Chase’s selfless act of bravery was witnessed by his wife and children. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend, whose courage and sacrifice saved lives. A GoFundMe campaign was established to support his family during this difficult time.
Conclusion
Chase Childers’ life was a testament to the power of selflessness and the impact one individual can have on the lives of others. From his achievements in baseball to his dedicated service as a police officer, and ultimately his heroic act that saved lives, Chase’s legacy continues to inspire. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of courage, compassion, and the willingness to put others before oneself.
FAQs
What was Chase Childers’ role in the Baltimore Orioles organization?
Chase was a minor league player for the Baltimore Orioles, playing second base and shortstop for teams in Florida and West Virginia during the 2009 and 2010 seasons.
Where did Chase Childers grow up?
Chase grew up in Kennesaw, Georgia, after his family moved there from Nashville, Tennessee.
What award did Chase Childers receive during his law enforcement career?
In 2012, Chase received the Cobb County Police Department Life Saving Award for his dedication to public service and his role in saving several lives.
How many children did Chase Childers have?
Chase had three children: Barrett, Brooks, and Bella Mae.
What happened to Chase Childers during the rescue at Pawleys Island?
While rescuing a family caught in a rip current, Chase was swept away by the current and tragically drowned.
Where was Chase Childers vacationing when the incident occurred?
Chase was vacationing with his family at Pawleys Island, South Carolina, when the incident occurred.
Who witnessed Chase Childers’ heroic act?
Chase’s wife, Nataley, and their three children witnessed his heroic act during the rescue.
What was the cause of death for Chase Childers?
Chase died from drowning after being swept away by a rip current while rescuing swimmers.
Was a memorial established for Chase Childers?
Yes, a GoFundMe campaign was established to support his family during this difficult time.
