A tragic accident unfolded Tuesday morning in Lavallette when a swimmer lost his life after being pulled into a rip current at an unguarded beach.
Police said the 39-year-old man from Totowa entered the ocean near New York Avenue around 11:45 a.m. when he became caught in the strong current. Witnesses reported he began calling for help as waves carried him out.
Firefighters responded quickly, reaching the man on a jet ski and bringing him back to shore. He was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, where he was later pronounced dead, according to officials.
Lavallette police confirmed to NBC that the man had been caught in a rip current, a hazard that has been especially dangerous along the Jersey Shore this summer. Numerous rescues and warnings have been issued in recent weeks.
The tragedy comes just one day after daily lifeguard coverage ended for the season at many beaches, including Lavallette. While some patrols will remain on duty during weekends, most weekday beachgoers are now swimming at their own risk. Even guarded beaches reported keeping swimmers closer to shore and intervening quickly when anyone drifted too far out.
Authorities are reminding beach visitors to exercise extreme caution when lifeguards are not present and to remain aware of rip current risks, which can strike suddenly and overpower even strong swimmers.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.