Coast Guard, multiple agencies search for missing swimmer near Rockaways

DATE: August 3, 2009 9:59:58 PM EDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Public Affairs Detachment New York
U.S. Coast Guard

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Date: Aug. 3, 2009 Public Affairs (212) 668-7114

News Release

Coast Guard, multiple agencies search for missing swimmer near Rockaways

NEW YORK – The U.S. Coast Guard and multiple first-response agencies are searching for a 34-year-old man who went missing near Riis Beach in the Rockaways around 8 p.m. today.

A Coast Guard Station Sandy Hook rescue boat crew is searching along with surface and air units from the New York City Police and Fire Departments.

“The call came in through 911 Dispatch after his friend noticed the man did not resurface after diving into the water,” said Lt. j.g. Maria Rosario, Coast Guard Sector New York’s command duty officer. “It is always a good idea to take a friend with you when you go out and be vigilant on the water. That way, you can look out for each other in case there is an emergency like this.”

Weather on scene was reported as four-foot seas and nine-mile-per-hour winds at the time of the incident.

**NOTE: Riis Beach was originally reported as Reece Park. The information has since been corrected.

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