Search for 14-year-old missing in the ocean off the New Jersey coast
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon amid adverse maritime conditions, with strong currents, intense winds and dangerous waves.
Emergency crews continue to search for a 14-year-old boy who disappeared in the ocean off the coast of Wildwood, New Jersey, after several swimmers were seen in difficulty in the water.
According to authorities, a police officer received an alert about a swimmer in distress at approximately 1:26 p.m. on Monday, ABC News reported.
After the warning, police personnel, lifeguards and members of the fire department immediately went to the scene to begin rescue efforts.
Three people were pulled from the water
Upon arriving at the area, emergency crews observed several people struggling against the sea conditions.
Rescuers managed to get three swimmers out of the water.
One of them was taken to a hospital and is in stable condition, according to authorities.
However, during the operations it was confirmed that a 14-year-old teenager was still missing.
After learning of the disappearance of the minor, the search effort was expanded with the incorporation of more rescuers and specialized agencies.
The operation includes the participation of the United States Coast Guard, the New Jersey State Police and other emergency agencies.
The work is carried out both by sea and by air using boats and helicopters deployed in the area.
Authorities highlight the difficult conditions of the sea
Wildwood Fire Chief Ernie Troiano III explained that weather and sea conditions significantly complicated rescue efforts.
“The conditions were very difficult,” he said.
According to authorities, strong winds, intense currents and considerable waves were being recorded in the area at the time of the incident.
These factors pose significant risks to beachgoers and also make search operations difficult.
So far, authorities have not reported that the teenager has been located.
Emergency teams maintain active operations while they travel different sectors of the coast and nearby waters in an effort to find the minor.
Authorities have not released the identity of the young man and continue to monitor sea conditions as the search efforts progress.