A search remains underway for a 14-year-old boy who went missing in the ocean off the New Jersey shore after emergency crews responded to reports of swimmers in distress near a popular beach destination.
The teen disappeared Monday afternoon near Schellenger Avenue and the beach in Wildwood. Authorities said rescue operations resumed Tuesday and are expected to continue as crews work to locate the missing juvenile.
When first responders arrived, they observed multiple people in the surf. A Wildwood police officer entered the water and helped three swimmers reach shore safely.
Authorities later determined that a 14-year-old boy remained unaccounted for.
The search quickly expanded as additional rescue personnel entered the water. Officials said rescuers from the Wildwood City Fire Department, North Wildwood Fire Department, Wildwood Beach Patrol, and Cape May County agencies joined the effort. The operation also included rescue boards and personal watercraft from local beach patrol units.
As the search continued, officials requested assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard, New Jersey State Police, and other agencies. Boats from the Coast Guard, New Jersey State Police, and North Wildwood Fire Department, along with Coast Guard and state police helicopters, were deployed to assist in the search area.
The agencies said rescue efforts continued for approximately two hours before beachside operations were suspended Monday evening. Aerial and marine units remained engaged in the search.
One swimmer was transported to Cooper University Cape Regional Hospital for treatment and was reported to be in stable condition, according to the release. Two other swimmers were treated at the scene.
“Conditions were very rough,” Troiano said, citing strong winds, powerful currents, and rough seas.
The disappearance has also affected the teen’s school community. David Weathington, CEO of the Philadelphia-based Delta school attended by the boy, called the situation “a devastating tragedy.”
"While the investigation and rescue efforts are still ongoing, Delta continues to pray for a successful rescue of this young man who was very dear to our Delta community," he said. "Today, we have been providing counseling and support for our students, as we await more information."