On arrival of Chief 2800 it was determined a 2nd person also jumped in the water from the bridge. One victim was rescued quickly by Fire Boat 53 and transferred to EMS staff for treatment. Fireboats 28 & 27 performed a grid search for the additional victim along with NJ State Police and Ocean County Sheriff. After sonar hits from search boats it was decided to have divers from Station 27 Dive Team enter the water. Additional divers from Stations 21/22 from Brick were also requested to assist. At approximately 2100 hrs due to the night and colder conditions the search was called off until morning.
This was a strongly coordinated effort among multiple agencies including the initial companies and US Coast Guard, Ocean County Sheriff’s Department, NJ State Police Marine Units, Ocean County Mutual Aid Coordinators and Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics. We are very thankful for our volunteers who responded with Fire Boat 27 and Dive Unit 2716 while additional members stood by the firehouse for any additional calls.
This morning the second victim was located and the families are being notified. Please keep the families of these two individuals as they process this difficult combination of unrelated events.
Remember if you need help to reach out to the Suicide Prevention Hotline especially as we get closer to the holiday season. DIAL 988.
If you ever though of getting involved in helping others and your community and were not sure where to start, now is the time! Reach out either stop by the firehouse on a Tuesday night or send us a message. The time is now! |
