ROCKAWAY, Queens (PIX11) — The search resumed Wednesday in the Rockaways for a missing swimmer in what appears to be the first drowning incident of the beach season, even though the official season does not begin until Saturday.
Swimming is only permitted from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when lifeguards are on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in designated beach areas.
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The waves are often seen as calming, and a day at the beach is usually associated with fun and relaxation.
Anisthesia, preparing for the summer season in the Rockaways, joined others Wednesday for a stroll along the boardwalk and time in the sand.
“I love the beach, but I wouldn’t swim without the lifeguards there,” she said.
Visitors were also reflecting on a tragic reminder about water safety and the dangers of strong ocean currents.
On Tuesday afternoon, around Beach 73rd Street, a group of students entered the water, and an 18-year-old swimmer became caught in a current.
Michael was also at the beach Tuesday afternoon.
Witnesses said a friend attempted to rescue the teen, but the waves and strong currents made conditions difficult.
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Claudia, a local resident and frequent beach visitor, said more public education about water safety is needed.
“It’s up to us to teach them what to do in these situations, especially being a coastal city,” she said.
A large-scale search involving the NYPD Harbor Unit, FDNY, the Coast Guard, divers, drones and marine units continued into Tuesday night before resuming Wednesday morning.
The teenager had not been found as of Wednesday.
“I feel bad for the family,” said Tito, another beachgoer.
Officials warn that rip currents can quickly sweep swimmers far from shore, creating dangerous conditions even for experienced swimmers.
Closed sections are marked with signs and/or red flags.
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Public beaches officially open for swimming this Saturday, with lifeguards scheduled to be on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The city says the Parks Department had more than 1,000 lifeguards staffing beaches and pool in summer 2025, the highest total since 2019. It was a 23% increase in new recruits from 2024.
Lifeguards are recertified in the month of July.
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