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Tuesday, Mar. 18, 2008

Not first rescue there by a Modestan

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Nearly eight months before Sunday's tragedy at Monastery Beach near Carmel, another man from Modesto plunged into the same waters to help rescue two people from drowning.

On July 25, Marlin Sumpter and wife Lorraine were picnicking at Monastery Beach. Nearby, a group of children from a camp and two adults were playing in the water. A 5-year-old boy was swept into the surf, and a camp counselor went in after him.

Marlin Sumpter, then 49, the director of child welfare and attendance for Modesto City Schools, went to their rescue.

Despite being slammed against a rock by the surf and injuring his shoulder, Sumpter was able to reach the pair and bring them toward shore. Others, including Lorraine Sumpter, formed a human chain into the water and pulled them to safety, park officials said at the time.