Dolphin rescued from lagoon in coordinated multi-agency effort
In a dramatic rescue on Saturday, July 12th, a nearly 8-foot female bottlenose dolphin known as “Lucky” was freed from a shallow tidal lagoon in the Hampton Lake community and returned safely to the May River after becoming stranded following recent storms and high tides.
The dolphin, estimated to weigh between 400 and 500 pounds, was first discovered by a resident who noticed it stuck in just 2 to 3 feet of water. Researchers at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, who track local dolphin populations, identified the animal as Lucky by her distinctive markings — a name that proved fitting given the outcome.
Authorities believe Lucky swam through a culvert connecting the lagoon to the May River during a period of heavy rainfall and elevated tides earlier in the week. When the tide receded, she became trapped in shallow waters surrounded by vegetation and debris.
At approximately 12:15 p.m., the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network — the only federally authorized responder for marine mammal strandings in South Carolina — received a call about the dolphin. The organization deployed a team from Charleston, including Executive Director Lauren Rust and responders Tracy Kowalczyk, John Kane, and Hilton Head Island-based volunteer Amber Kuehn.
After assessing the situation, the team requested additional assistance from the Bluffton Township Fire District around 3:45 p.m. Rescue 335, part of South Carolina Regional Response Team 4, arrived with personnel trained in technical water rescue.
With the support of residents Michael Smith and Thomas Layer, the combined team used a marine rescue tarp with stabilizing poles to corral the dolphin. Although Lucky initially swam farther into the lagoon, the group eventually regrouped and safely guided her onto the tarp.
Carrying the dolphin approximately 75 yards through shallow water and up a steep embankment, the team loaded her onto a utility trailer provided by Kuehn. She was then transported roughly 2 to 3 miles under fire department escort to a private dock in May River Plantation. At just before 6 p.m., Lucky was released into deeper water and swam away.
The entire rescue was documented on video and in photos by the Bluffton Township Fire District and shared widely across social media platforms. Since the rescue, Lucky’s story has gone viral, reaching more than 53 million people across television, online, and social media platforms. The story was featured on ABC World News, CBS, Fox News, and hundreds of local news stations across major markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Boston.
On social media, the Bluffton Township Fire District released a four-minute video capturing the full rescue, drawing widespread attention and praise for the coordinated response.
The rescue highlighted the importance of proper protocol in responding to marine mammal strandings. Officials stressed that the public should never attempt to handle or rescue stranded animals without proper training and authorization. Only organizations like the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network, operating under federal guidelines, are legally allowed to respond.
People who encounter stranded or distressed marine mammals should call 911 or contact the S.C. Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Stranding Hotline at 1-800-922-5431. Attempting to help or harass a marine mammal without authorization can result in federal penalties of up to $100,000.
The rescue also underscores the role weather events can play in coastal wildlife emergencies. Culverts and other stormwater infrastructure, combined with high tides, can create dangerous conditions for animals like dolphins that may inadvertently enter restricted areas. As the tide recedes, these animals can become trapped with little chance of escape without human intervention.
Bluffton Township Fire District, which covers 246 square miles of southern Beaufort County, responds to more than 9,000 calls each year and provides fire suppression, technical rescue, and EMS support. The district is a core participant in regional emergency response partnerships and played a critical role in Lucky’s safe return.
The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, focuses on marine mammal protection through education, outreach, and response. In addition to responding to strandings, the group provides community training and citizen science opportunities along the South Carolina coast.
Members of the public are encouraged to support marine mammal protection by keeping a safe distance from wildlife, never feeding marine animals, properly disposing of trash, and reporting any strandings immediately. Individuals interested in volunteering with the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network can learn more at lowcountrymarinemammalnetwork.org.
The successful rescue of Lucky serves as a model for how trained responders, local volunteers, and emergency personnel can work together under pressure to protect coastal wildlife. While the story has traveled across the globe, the effort behind the scenes reflects years of preparation, collaboration, and community awareness.
In a region known for its scenic waterways and rich biodiversity, Lucky’s return to the May River is more than just a feel-good moment — it’s a testament to the power of shared responsibility and the importance of respecting and protecting South Carolina’s marine life.
