11-year-old girl nearly drowns in Cornwall riptide as adults watch

During a holiday in Cornwall, Alexandra Tolstoy's daughter, Maria, faced a life-threatening situation when she was caught in a riptide. The 11-year-old was in distress and required immediate assistance, but the adults present failed to act. Fortunately, her brothers, Alexei and Ivan, bravely entered the water and successfully rescued her, demonstrating remarkable courage in a critical moment. Alexandra expressed her gratitude for their heroic actions, highlighting the stark contrast between their response and that of the onlookers. The incident occurred in an area without lifeguard supervision, which contributed to the urgency of the situation. Alexandra described the experience as traumatic for her family, particularly for Maria, who was understandably shaken by the ordeal. The Coastguard and local lifeguards played a crucial role in the aftermath, with one lifeguard running over a mile barefoot to provide assistance. Alexandra, who is related to the famous author Leo Tolstoy, shared her insights on the dangers of riptides, emphasizing the importance of knowing how to respond in such situations. She advised swimmers to swim sideways out of a riptide and to float on their backs if they find themselves in trouble. This incident served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the ocean and the need for vigilance when swimming in unfamiliar waters. Ultimately, the experience reinforced the bond between Maria and her brothers, dispelling any doubts about their affection for one another. Alexandra's reflections on the event highlight the importance of family support in times of crisis and the lessons learned from this harrowing experience.