Cape May calls off search for "missing swimmer"

Rescue crews in Cape May have called off a search for a “missing swimmer” after concluding that no one was missing after all.

The search began Thursday morning when Cape May authorities received a report that a woman believed to be 30 to 40 years old was in distress while swimming in dangerously rough surf between Madison and Beach avenues. Lifeguards had been prohibiting swimming at the time because of the treacherous ocean conditions and rip currents.

Rescuers continued to scour the waters for the missing swimmer, but called off the search on Saturday after an investigation revealed that no official missing person report had been filed with the Cape May Police Department or any other agencies.

“Based on all available information, there is no evidence to suggest that a missing person case exists or is warranted at this time,” the Cape May police and fire departments said in a Facebook post.

As a precaution, authorities will continue to monitor the waterways and shoreline within the patterns suggested by the U.S. Coast Guard and New Jersey State Police Marine Unit, the post added.

“We understand the seriousness of any report involving a potentially missing person and appreciate the concern expressed by members of the community. Our department treats all such situations with the highest priority and due diligence in this instance,” the post said.

At the height of the search, the Cape May police and fire departments and lifeguards from the city’s beach patrol were joined by the Coast Guard, New Jersey State Police and fire companies from Townbank and North Wildwood. The Cape May Public Works Department also assisted.

Authorities are urging swimmers to go into the ocean only where lifeguards are protecting the beach.

In the meantime, the Facebook post encouraged anyone who has concerns about public safety to contact Cape May Police Department Det. David Atkinson at (609) 884-9500.