14 Year Old Swimmer Missing Off Wildwood Beach

PRESS RELEASE BY: City of Wildwood Fire Department

On Monday June 1, 2026, at approximately 1:26 pm, a Wildwood Police Officer was flagged down regarding swimmers in distress in the area of Schellenger Ave. and the Beach in the City of Wildwood. The Wildwood City Fire Department and North Wildwood Fire Department were immediately dispatched, along with Wildwood Police for a water rescue assignment.

A Wildwood Beach Patrol ALERT Team consisting of 3 lifeguards was also on duty and responded as well. Upon arrival of the first Wildwood City Fire and Police units, several people were observed in the surf.

A Wildwood Police Officer entered the water and assisted three swimmers out of the water. At this time, it was determined that one swimmer, a 14-year-old juvenile male was still missing.

Multiple rescue swimmers from the Wildwood City Fire Dept., North Wildwood Fire Dept., Wildwood Beach Patrol, and North Wildwood Beach Patrol entered the water and began searching for the missing swimmer.

This also included launching rescuers on rescue boards and two PWC’s from the Wildwood Beach Patrol and one PWC from the North Wildwood Beach Patrol. Additional resources were requested from the United States Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay and NJ State Police, Marine Services Bureau.

Boats from the USCG, NJSP, and North Wildwood Fire Dept., along with USCG and NJSP helicopters all assisted in the search operation.

After approximately 2 hours of searching, beachside rescue operations ceased but marine and aviation units continued the search the area.

One swimmer was transported to Cooper University Cape Regional Hospital for treatment, where they are reported to be in stable condition, while two other swimmers were treated on scene. The juvenile male has yet to be located at the time of this release, however search efforts are still ongoing.

Updates will be provided as the search continues.

Thank you to our first responders!!!