Emergency personnel are actively responding to a serious water rescue off the coast of Lavallette, where multiple swimmers have been reported in distress. The New Jersey State Police and U.S. Coast Guard are en route to assist with the operation.
According to initial reports, several individuals entered the water in an attempt to rescue others, but may have themselves become overwhelmed by the strong rip currents.
“Everyone please stay out of the water, the riptides are very strong,” the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office warned in a statement. “There are no lifeguards on duty.”
UPDATE 7:30 PM: All swimmers have been rescued, one is being treated for exhaustion.
When are people going to learn. Stay out of the ocean beaches unless there are lifeguards on duty. The rip currents the past number of years have been strong and they can easily pull you under.