The human head that washed ashore on South Florida belonged to a 19-year-old swimmer who disappeared after saving his sister's life in Miami Beach last weekend, authorities said.
On Saturday evening, Miami Beach Police responded to calls about a swimmer in distress. That swimmer was 19-year-old Victor Castaneda Jr., who family members said had gone into the water with his younger sister.
The two got caught in a rip current, and the younger sister made it to safety but Castaneda vanished in the water, family said.
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Miami Beach Police said they searched Saturday and Sunday before suspending their efforts.
But on Tuesday morning, a worker who was raking the beach on Key Biscayne came across a head that washed ashore.
Police confirmed Friday that the remains are Castaneda. The medical examiner made the confirmation.
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"The Miami Beach Police Department extends prayers and condolences to the family. Our victim advocates will continue to provide support to the family during this time," the department said in a statement.
Family members said Castaneda died a hero.
“My brother was the kindest person I know and hardworking," older sister Jessica Castaneda said after he disappeared. "He was an amazing student. He had so many dreams. He was gonna enlist in the Navy."
