Local Man Drowns in the Gulf — Matthew Hattaway Is a Hero

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Bossier City's Matthew Hattaway, who drowned in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Alabama. The 25-year-old Hattaway was trying to save a child who had gotten caught in a rip tide when he was pulled under.

Hattaway was one of two men who drowned in the dangerous rip currents on the Alabama coast at Fort Morgan. A third person is missing.

The Baldwin County Coroner says Hattaway was pronounced dead Sunday afternoon. A relative spotted him floating in the surf. Hattaway recently got engaged and was looking forward to starting his life with his fiancé.

We found this update on Matthew's Facebook page:

 

Yesterday God called one of the best young men u will ever meet home to Glory but not until after he saved several others. His smile and effervescent presence will be sorely missed. There is a hole in our hearts and lives that cannot be replaced. We love you Matt & know you are watching over our girl. I know u felt like a lucky man to have found her but WE were the lucky ones to have known you. Thank you for using the gifts God gave you. Until we meet again.