The day began with a dip into the cool Atlantic waters along the New Jersey shore near Avon-by-the-Sea. Soon after, his daughter made a beeline toward the waves, splashing as she waded deeper into the dark blue. The narrow, fast-moving stream swept her farther and farther away from the shore. Mr. Batista rushed in to rescue her, friends and authorities said. But the ocean, in all its cruelty, pulled him under.

---

Persons: Mark Batista, Batista Organizations: New York Fire Department Locations: New Jersey, Avon