News Summary
A tragic incident occurred in Frisco, NC, where a 67-year-old man from Nanuet, New York, drowned while swimming in the Atlantic Ocean. The man was discovered face down in the water near Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Despite attempts by beachgoers and rescue teams to save him, he could not be revived. Witnesses noted he was swimming without a flotation device, raising concerns about ocean safety and rip currents. Local officials remind beach visitors to adhere to safety protocols when swimming in unfamiliar waters.
Frisco, NC – Tragic Incident Claims Life of 67-Year-Old Swimmer
A 67-year-old man from Nanuet, New York, died on Monday, June 30, 2025, while swimming in the Atlantic Ocean near Frisco, North Carolina. The incident occurred just east of Cape Hatteras National Seashore’s Ramp 49, where a bystander noticed the man floating face down in the water.
First responders received a call about the situation at 2:51 PM. Beachgoers promptly attempted to rescue the man, bringing him to the shore. Despite the efforts of bystanders and Hatteras Island Ocean Rescue staff to perform CPR, these attempts were unsuccessful.
Emergency response teams from Dare County Emergency Medical Services and Cape Hatteras National Seashore Rangers also arrived at the scene to assist. Due to the conditions on the day of the incident, there was a moderate risk for rip currents reported in Frisco; however, rip currents were not observed in the immediate area where the incident took place. The specific cause of death has not yet been released.
Details of the Incident
Witnesses recounted the man’s activities prior to the tragedy, stating he was swimming without a flotation device, which is a practice that can lead to increased danger in ocean waters, particularly in regions known for rip currents. Although a moderate risk of rip currents had been noted, it remains unclear whether this contributed to the man’s situation.
The victim’s identity has been confirmed as being from Nanuet, New York, which is located approximately 520 miles north of Frisco. This distance underscores the potential for visitors to be unfamiliar with the local water conditions and safety measures while enjoying the beach.
Response from Officials
In the wake of this incident, the Superintendent of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, David Hallac, extended condolences to the family and friends of the victim. This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the inherent dangers of swimming in ocean waters, particularly without proper safety gear during uncertain weather conditions.
Background on Rip Currents and Ocean Safety
Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of water that flow away from the shore. They can be swift and deceptive, posing significant dangers to swimmers who may not be familiar with how to identify them or how to escape if caught. Even with a moderate risk indicator, conditions can change quickly, making caution and preparation essential for anyone planning to swim in open water.
This incident highlights the importance of being aware of one’s swimming abilities, understanding the ocean environment, and using flotation devices when swimming in less controlled conditions. Lifeguards and local safety rules is vital for ensuring a safe beach experience.
The tragic death of the New York man serves as a somber reminder of the need for vigilance and respect for the ocean’s power. Local authorities encourage all beach visitors to familiarize themselves with safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
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Additional Resources
- WCTI 12 News
- Wikipedia: Rip Current
- News Observer
- Google Search: Swimming Safety
- WTKR News
- Google Scholar: Ocean Safety
- The Coastland Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ocean Safety
- WAVY News
- Google News: Swimming Accidents
