HOLDEN BEACH, N.C. (WHKY) — A father and son from Lenoir died after being pulled from the Atlantic Ocean during a weekend incident at Holden Beach.

Holden Beach Police identified the victims as 46-year-old Daniel Jason Roberts and his 20-year-old son, Dylan Daniel Roberts, both of Lenoir. Emergency crews were dispatched around 9:45 a.m. Sunday to the 1100 block of Ocean Boulevard West after reports of two people struggling in the water.

Police, firefighters and EMS personnel responded immediately and began rescue and life-saving efforts, but both men were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not officially determined the cause of death, although the Holden Beach area was under a moderate to high rip current risk over the weekend.

Holden Beach Police Chief Steven Barger extended condolences to the victims’ families, saying the town’s thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the tragedy.

Dylan Roberts worked at Town Tavern in Blowing Rock. Following his death, the restaurant announced it would close for the remainder of Sunday and Monday, describing Roberts as “far more than an employee” who brought warmth, energy and a positive spirit to the business. The restaurant said Roberts had recently been building a life with his longtime girlfriend, Maggie Day, and asked the community to keep both families in their thoughts. Officials continue to remind beachgoers that rip currents are among the leading causes of ocean drownings along the North Carolina coast and urge swimmers to pay close attention to beach warning flags and surf conditions.

A gofundme has been started to raise money for the Roberts family. The message that is part of the fundraiser says Dylan lost his life while attempting to save his father. The gofundme was started by Justin Davis.