Expand / Collapse search
☰

First responders form human chain to rescue struggling swimmer

Published  August 21, 2017 1:45pm EDT
U.S.
FOX 29 Philadelphia

CAPE MAY, NJ (WTXF) - CAPE MAY, N.J. (AP) - Firefighters and lifeguards formed a human chain to rescue a swimmer struggling in waters off the New Jersey shore.

Authorities say three swimmers in Cape May became trapped around 5:45 p.m. Friday.

Some city firefighters who happened to be nearby for an unrelated incident rushed to the scene. They learned the three swimmers had made it back to shore, but another swimmer who tried to rescue them was now struggling in the water.

Two firefighters and several lifeguards with the Cape May Beach Patrol entered the water and formed the chain. They were soon able to bring the swimmer back to the shore with help from more firefighters and city police.

All four swimmers were taken to a hospital for evaluation, but it doesn't appear anyone was seriously injured.