Search Resumes for 2 Teenagers Missing Off Beach in Queens

Authorities halted their search on Saturday afternoon for two missing teenagers at Jacob Riis Park in Queens, known for its dangerous rip currents. The New York Police Department received reports of a possible drowning on Friday evening around 6:30 p.m. Witnesses stated that two teenage boys, aged 16 and 17, were struggling in the water before disappearing from sight.

Emergency responders from the police, fire department, and Coast Guard, including rescue swimmers and divers, searched the area but found no sign of the teenagers. The Coast Guard mentioned that over 600 square miles were searched between New Jersey and Long Island.

Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry mentioned that witnesses reported the teenagers being swept away by a large wave that pulled them under. Michelle Krupa from the Coast Guard attributed the incident to a strong rip current at Rockaway.

Divers suspended their search on Friday night due to rough currents, with the Coast Guard boat continuing the search overnight. Efforts by sea and air resumed on Saturday but were eventually called off at 4 p.m. Coast Guard Commander Jonathan Andrechik mentioned that suspending a search is always a difficult decision.

The National Weather Service forecasted a moderate risk of rip currents at Jacob Riis Park on Friday, with waves reaching three to four feet. The risk was expected to increase to a high level by Sunday.

Rip currents are a common occurrence in the Rockaways and have tragically claimed the lives of many beachgoers, particularly young individuals. The area has seen multiple drownings in recent years due to these dangerous currents.

Despite the ongoing heat wave in New York, with temperatures soaring, Jacob Riis Park remained open to the public on Saturday. The area’s topography and ocean floor make it prone to rip currents, according to meteorologists.

The lack of lifeguards in the area has also been a concern, with many drownings occurring when lifeguards are off duty. Enforcing swimming restrictions during these times can be challenging.

New York officials have acknowledged a lifeguard shortage, with only 310 on duty when 600 are needed for full beach operation. The safety of beachgoers remains a priority as authorities work to prevent further tragedies.

Isabella Kwai contributed reporting.