Water Rescue

Search for CT teen who went swimming at RI beach now a recovery mission

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A New London teenager is missing after going swimming at a Rhode Island beach and the rescue mission is now a recovery mission.

Authorities say that a family of 12 had gone swimming after hours at Dunes Park Beach Thursday night.

Of the 12, a 15-year-old did not make it out of the water.

“There’s a strong current around the jetties,” Westerly Police Chief Paul Gingerella said.

He said they think he either slipped and fell from the rocks or slipped underneath.

After searching for hours, first responders do not expect to find him alive.

“Scuba divers, jet skis, rescue swimmers, choppers boats, the helicopter from the coast guard," Gingerella said. "We had everyone we could think of to try to help to try and find this person.” 

Authorities noted that there was no lifeguard on duty at the time when the family went swimming.

Emergency responders wrapped up major search efforts Friday afternoon but will keep local boats and ATVs out through the weekned.

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