Teenage boy from New Jersey drowns in Delaware River
A teenage boy from Elizabeth, New Jersey, drowned in the Delaware River on Sunday afternoon.
The boy, whose name was not released, was swimming at the Ames-Jennings picnic site when he went underwater, according to the National Park Service. An emergency call was made around 2:15 p.m., and his body was recovered by the NPS dive team around 3:30 p.m.
The teen is the second person to drown in the river this summer within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
“Our hearts and our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of the victims of these tragic incidents,” said Dustin Gunderson, dive team leader. “We can’t say it enough: Wearing a properly fitted and fastened life jacket is the number one way that folks can keep themselves safe while swimming in the Delaware River.”
This death brings the total number of drowning within the recreation area to 103. Most have occurred in the river, and none of the victims had properly fitted and fastened life jackets on. July is the most common month for drownings to occur in the recreation area.
More coverage: Delaware Water Gap recreation area: 2020’s five drownings bring total to 101
“The Delaware River has a swift current and an uneven bottom making it easy for one to suddenly get in over their heads and get caught in the swift current below the surface,” the NPS reminded visitors. “In addition to wearing a life jacket, park rangers and emergency service providers suggest that those seeking a break from the heat near the river stay near shore in shallower water; avoid swimming near rapids; swim at lifeguarded beaches; and always assign someone to keep an eye on everyone in their party who is in the water, especially children. The NPS provides free ‘loaner’ lifejackets for children to use while swimming at Milford, Smithfield, and Turtle Beaches.”
The NPS was assisted by Blue Ridge Rescue Squad, Sandyston Township Volunteer Fire Department, Bushkill Volunteer Fire Department. Bushkill EMS, New Jersey State Police and Sussex County.
This article originally appeared on Pocono Record: NJ teen drowns Sunday in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
