News Summary
A 67-year-old man from Nanuet, New York, drowned while swimming near Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Despite immediate CPR efforts from bystanders and emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials stress the importance of being aware of water conditions and the risks of swimming without proper flotation devices, especially in areas known for rip currents.
Frisco, North Carolina – A 67-year-old man from Nanuet, New York, tragically died while swimming in the Atlantic Ocean on June 30, 2025. The incident took place near the popular Cape Hatteras National Seashore, east of Ramp 49.
Emergency services were alerted to the situation after a bystander spotted the man face down in the water around 2:50 p.m. The bystander promptly called 911 at approximately 2:51 p.m. After noticing the swimmer’s distress, nearby individuals pulled him from the water and immediately began performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Despite the swift response of bystanders, Hatteras Island Ocean Rescue personnel, Dare County Emergency Medical Services, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore Rangers who arrived to assist with resuscitation efforts, attempts to revive the man were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
At the time of the incident, the risk of rip currents was reported as moderate. However, it was noted that there were no visible rip currents at the specific location where the man was swimming. Reports indicate that the victim was swimming without any flotation device.
In the wake of this tragedy, Park Superintendent David Hallac conveyed condolences to the family and friends of the victim, acknowledging the profound loss felt by those close to him.
Details of the Incident
The swimming incident occurred during a period when the Atlantic waters near Frisco could draw a number of beachgoers, taken by the inviting weather and moderate currents. Public safety officials stress the importance of being aware of water conditions, especially in coastal areas where unpredictable currents can occur.
Response from Emergency Services
Following the discovery of the man in distress, local responders swiftly mobilized to attempt to save him. Hatteras Island Ocean Rescue staff, as well as the county’s emergency medical services and national park rangers, entered the scene and attempted life-saving measures. CPR is often one of the first responses in situations of cardiac arrest or drowning, but despite best efforts, resuscitation did not succeed.
Swimming Safety Precautions
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with swimming in open waters. Local authorities recommend that swimmers always be aware of the conditions before entering the ocean. Awareness of rip current risks and swimming with a flotation device can provide additional safety measures, particularly for those who may not be strong swimmers.
Background on Rip Currents
Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of water that can flow away from shore, posing a risk to swimmers. Lifeguards and safety models usually monitor conditions and can provide critical information to beachgoers. Though the risk was noted as moderate during this incident, conditions can change rapidly, underscoring the need for swimmers to remain vigilant.
The tragedy that befell the 67-year-old man from Nanuet highlights the importance of understanding ocean safety and the potential risks involved with swimming in open waters. Local officials continue to encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the beautiful coastal environment responsibly.
The community around Frisco, and particularly the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, making safety awareness a priority for local authorities and visitors to the beach.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WITN
- Google Search: swimming incident hatteras island
- WCTI
- Wikipedia: Cape Hatteras National Seashore
- 13 News Now
- Google News: New York man swimming accident Cape Hatteras
- The Coastland Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: rip current
- WTKR
- Google Scholar: swimming safety outer banks
- ABC11
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
