Malcolm-Jamal Warner, beloved for his role in “The Cosby Show,” tragically drowned while swimming with his 8-year-old daughter in Costa Rica. Reports indicate that both Warner and his daughter were spotted struggling in the ocean by nearby surfers who attempted to assist them. This incident occurred on Sunday, July 20, 2025, around 2:00 PM, shortly before Warner was pronounced dead. He was 54 years old.
The Costa Rican National Police confirmed the incident, which took place near Cocles beach in Limón. Eyewitness accounts reveal that Warner had participated in a surfing lesson earlier that day before returning to the water with his daughter and a few others. Mike Geist, a lifeguard instructor and vice president of Caribbean Guard, shared details of the tragic events with Us Weekly. He noted that after their surf lesson, Warner and others decided to re-enter the ocean, where they were later seen in distress.
Volunteer lifeguards, who were not officially on duty at the time, jumped into action to rescue the struggling swimmers. Geist mentioned that a doctor, who was among those present on the beach, was the one who ultimately located Warner submerged in the water. Despite immediate attempts at CPR, it was too late, and Warner’s death was ruled as asphyxia, a condition caused by insufficient oxygen.
The beach where the incident occurred is known for its strong currents and large waves, making it a hazardous area for inexperienced swimmers. Roger Sanz, president of the Chamber of Tourism and Commerce of the Southern Caribbean, emphasized the importance of informing beachgoers about the potential dangers of such locations. He noted that many hotels and vacation rentals do provide warnings about the currents, but not all guests are adequately briefed on the risks involved.
The Caribbean Guard, a volunteer lifeguard association, expressed their regret over the incident, stating that they were not present at Playa Grande due to limited resources. Sanz explained, “That’s where problems arise, when people come and don’t know about the currents or sea conditions. That can lead to fatalities and tragedies like the one that occurred this past Sunday.”
Warner’s final public interview occurred just two months prior to his death, where he reflected on his legacy and how he hoped to be remembered. This tragic event has left fans and the entertainment community mourning the loss of a talented actor and father.
As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Warner’s drowning continues, it serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of the ocean and the importance of safety precautions when enjoying water activities. The community is now rallying to raise awareness about beach safety and the need for proper lifeguard coverage in high-risk areas.
In remembering Malcolm-Jamal Warner, fans are encouraged to celebrate his contributions to television and his role as a devoted father, cherishing the memories he created both on and off-screen.