Category: Point Pleasant Beach

Ocean County, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach

“Save Our Whales” Rally On “World Whale Day” In Point Plesant Over Concerns Of Recent Whale Deaths

February 19, 2023

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Smith (R-Manchester) called for immediate answers from the Biden Administration and Governor Murphy to the growing questions raised by him, county and local officials, environmental leaders, and concerned Jersey Shore residents over the massive offshore wind projects along the New Jersey-New York coastline in light of the recent unprecedented surge in whale deaths.

Rep. Smith speaks at the Save the Whales rally in Point Pleasant Beach on Sunday. Pictured with Smith are (left to right) Trisha DeVoe, a naturalist and rally co-organizer; Leslie Mangold, rally organizer; Seaside Park Mayor John Peterson Jr; and Cindy Zypf, Executive Director of Clean Ocean Action.

“Questions and concerns raised by me and many others have gone unanswered concerning the unexplained deaths of at least 10 whales,” said Smith, who has received no response to date from the Biden Administration regarding his request to immediately pause all offshore wind projects until ecological safety can be assured.

“We demand to be heard and our deep concerns addressed—not trivialized, mocked or dismissed,” Smith said. “We want the truth. The people of New Jersey deserve better.”

The rally comes less than a week after a dead whale washed ashore in Manasquan and just two days after another dead whale washed ashore in New York, marking the ninth and tenth whale deaths in the area since early December.

“There is great concern for the potential serious—even catastrophic—damage to marine ecosystems leading to the destruction of NJ’s fishing and tourism businesses if hundreds, and even thousands, of wind turbines are installed off the New Jersey coast,” said Smith.

“Collectively, New Jersey and New York have set the nation’s largest
regional offshore wind target by aiming to install over 16 GW of offshore wind energy capacity by 2035,” Smith said.

“No elected officeholder including President Biden or Governor Murphy—or any bureaucrat—should advance such a sweeping, potentially dangerous policy without meaningful input from the people or by bypassing local officials as happened on Friday to benefit Orsted,” said Smith.

“On Friday, I introduced legislation in the House of Representatives to require the US Government Accountability Office—GAO—to investigate the ‘sufficiency of the environmental review processes for offshore wind projects…of the Marine Fisheries Service, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and any other relevant federal agency,’” said Smith.

Smith noted the investigation would determine the impact of offshore wind activity on whales and other marine wildlife, commercial and recreational fishing, vessel traffic, tourism, and the sustainability of shoreline beaches and inlets.

The study mandated by Smith’s bill would also examine whether federal agencies adequately consulted major stakeholders including county and local officials, commercial and recreational fishermen, local environmental groups, and Jersey Shore residents, as well as determine the estimated cost of these projects and who pays for them.

“Without serious, aggressive and independent analysis on the impact of these projects, they must be paused,” said Smith.

Amid growing concerns over recent whale deaths, ongoing questions about environmental impacts and a call from 12 Jersey Shore mayors for a moratorium on offshore wind activity, Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) on Monday urged two Biden Administration Secretaries in separate letters to immediately suspend all offshore wind projects until “ecological safety can be assured.”

            Smith, writing on behalf of the 12 mayors, including four from his own congressional district, said, “I share their concerns regarding the several offshore wind projects under development off the coast of New Jersey, and their requisite impact on recent whale deaths, as well as the potential impacts on the broader environment and the fishing industry.”

            “Over the course of the past several months, there have been repeated instances of dead whales washing up on New Jersey’s shoreline, and the proximity of nearby offshore wind development has raised concerns that ongoing activity on these projects may be contributing to whale fatalities,” Smith said in his January 30th letters to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.

            “The federal government has a responsibility to ensure the Jersey Shore’s environmental viability, and any projects that may affect not only whales, but the broader marine ecosystem and the economy it sustains, must be comprehensively reviewed before allowed to proceed,” said Smith.

            “The New Jersey mayors, local environmental leaders, and members of the fishing community all share a deep concern that four major offshore wind projects have been approved concurrently within the span of two years. That these projects are being built at such a large scale and in such a short amount of time casts doubt over whether there was sufficient time to properly evaluate these projects’ impact on marine ecosystems, fisheries, shipping channels, tourism, and other important factors that may be affected,” Smith said in the letters.

            “It was recently reported that, last year, the Delaware Riverkeeper Network raised a concern that construction related to offshore wind was harmful to Atlantic Sturgeon. While at first their review overlooked this concern, NOAA subsequently found new information corroborating this claim. Still, construction continued in the interim, causing undue environmental harm,” Smith wrote.

            “Similarly, the lack of conclusive evidence disproving the link between offshore wind development and whale deaths is sufficient enough to require a pause until assurances can be made to the public that the environmental and maritime safety of these projects has been properly reviewed,” Smith continued.

            “Accordingly, I request that all work be suspended until such time that ecological safety can be assured,” wrote Smith.

Photos by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response

A rally was held today on the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk in front of Jenkinson’s about the recent whale deaths.

Another Dead Whale Washes Up On Beach In Manasquan, New Jersey; As Concern Grows Over Offshore Wind Projects
Are New Jersey’s Windmill Projects Killing The Whales?
gao_whale_study_for_introductionDownload
12_nj_coastal_mayors_call_for_moratorium_on_offshore_wind_activity_jan30Download
2023-01-30_letter_to_secretary_raimondoDownload

Photos below provided:

Manasquan, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach, State of NJ, Toms River

Smith Introduces Bill To Require Investigation Into Environmental Approval Process For Offshore Wind Projects

Nine dead whales in two months and still no answers from the Biden Administration

February 17, 2023

TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today introduced legislation requiring an immediate, comprehensive investigation into the environmental approval process for offshore wind projects as Governor Murphy and the Biden Administration continue to ignore growing calls to pause offshore wind development over concerns about the recent A dead whale washes ashore in Manasquan on Monday, February 13th—the ninth one along the New Jersey-New York coastline since early December.

 “Nine dead whales have washed up on our beaches since early December, and we still have no meaningful answers from Governor Murphy or the Biden Administration on the broader impact of these projects on the marine environment as they rush to build the largest offshore wind farm in the nation,” said Smith, who has yet to receive a response from the Biden Administration after he urged two Biden Administration Secretaries late last month to pause the offshore wind activity.

“As part of a full-court press for answers, my legislation will investigate the level of transparency from federal agencies that greenlighted this aggressive offshore wind development and determine how much scrutiny was implemented in reviewing the environmental and maritime safety of this project, especially given its unprecedented size and scale,” Smith said.

            Smith’s bill would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO)—commonly known as the congressional watchdog—to investigate the sufficiency of the environmental review process for offshore wind projects, including the impacts on whales, finfish, marine mammals, benthic resources, commercial and recreational fishing, air quality and greenhouse gas emissions, vessel traffic, tourism, and the sustainability of shoreline beaches and inlets.

The study mandated by Smith’s legislation would also examine whether federal agencies adequately consulted major stakeholders including county and local officials, commercial and recreational fishermen, local environmental groups, and Jersey Shore residents, as well as determine the estimated cost of these projects and who pays for them.

Smith, a longtime advocate for marine wildlife and the broader environmental and economic viability of the Jersey Shore, reiterated that “the lack of conclusive evidence disproving the link between offshore wind development and whale deaths is sufficient to require a pause until assurances can be made to the public that the environmental and maritime safety of these projects has been properly reviewed.”

Are New Jersey’s Windmill Projects Killing The Whales?
Another Dead Whale Washes Up On Beach In Manasquan, New Jersey; As Concern Grows Over Offshore Wind Projects

gao_whale_study_for_introductionDownload

Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response

Manasquan, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Another Dead Whale Washes Up On Beach In Manasquan, New Jersey; As Concern Grows Over Offshore Wind Projects

U.S. Congressman Chris Smith Calls On Biden Administration To Suspend Offshore Wind Projects Over Whale Deaths

February 13, 2023

MANASQUAN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Ryan Mack of Jersey Shore Fire Response reported that another dead whale has washed up on the beach in Manasquan, NJ this afternoon February 13, 2023. In the video below the whale can be seen just off the coast of the beach.

On January 31, 2023, U.S. Congressman Chris Smith called on the Biden Administration to suspend all offshore wind projects over growing concerns about recent whale deaths.

 Amid growing concerns over recent whale deaths, ongoing questions about environmental impacts and a call from 12 Jersey Shore mayors for a moratorium on offshore wind activity, Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) on Monday urged two Biden Administration Secretaries in separate letters to immediately suspend all offshore wind projects until “ecological safety can be assured.”

            Smith, writing on behalf of the 12 mayors, including four from his own congressional district, said, “I share their concerns regarding the several offshore wind projects under development off the coast of New Jersey, and their requisite impact on recent whale deaths, as well as the potential impacts on the broader environment and the fishing industry.”

            “Over the course of the past several months, there have been repeated instances of dead whales washing up on New Jersey’s shoreline, and the proximity of nearby offshore wind development has raised concerns that ongoing activity on these projects may be contributing to whale fatalities,” Smith said in his January 30th letters to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.

            “The federal government has a responsibility to ensure the Jersey Shore’s environmental viability, and any projects that may affect not only whales, but the broader marine ecosystem and the economy it sustains, must be comprehensively reviewed before allowed to proceed,” said Smith.

            “The New Jersey mayors, local environmental leaders, and members of the fishing community all share a deep concern that four major offshore wind projects have been approved concurrently within the span of two years. That these projects are being built at such a large scale and in such a short amount of time casts doubt over whether there was sufficient time to properly evaluate these projects’ impact on marine ecosystems, fisheries, shipping channels, tourism, and other important factors that may be affected,” Smith said in the letters.

            “It was recently reported that, last year, the Delaware Riverkeeper Network raised a concern that construction related to offshore wind was harmful to Atlantic Sturgeon. While at first their review overlooked this concern, NOAA subsequently found new information corroborating this claim. Still, construction continued in the interim, causing undue environmental harm,” Smith wrote.

            “Similarly, the lack of conclusive evidence disproving the link between offshore wind development and whale deaths is sufficient enough to require a pause until assurances can be made to the public that the environmental and maritime safety of these projects has been properly reviewed,” Smith continued.

            “Accordingly, I request that all work be suspended until such time that ecological safety can be assured,” wrote Smith.

2023-01-30_letter_to_secretary_raimondoDownload
12_nj_coastal_mayors_call_for_moratorium_on_offshore_wind_activity_jan30Download
Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Family Escapes Injury As Car Drives Onto Active Railroad Line In Point Pleasant Beach

August 29, 2022

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Luckily, a family escaped severe injuries when their vehicle turned on to an active NJ Transit line in Point Pleasant Beach this evening near West Atlantic Avenue and Route 35. The NJ Transit rail line was shut down and New Jersey Transit Police responded to the scene. No additional details are available about the incident.

Photos by: Jersey Shore Fire Response

Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Fatal Train Accident In Point Pleasant Beach

POINT PLESANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–The Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and NJ Transit Police are investigating an incident that occurred on the train tracks at the Forman Ave crossing. All train crossings are currently open and operating normally at this time. The train has been moved and the investigation at the scene, has concluded. NJ Transit confirmed there was a fatality at the scene. No further details are available at this time.

Atlantic City, Barnegat Light, Ocean County, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach

Coast Guard Aircrew Medevacs Man from Fishing Vessel 45 Miles East of Point Pleasant

April 6, 2022

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The Coast Guard medevaced a 46-year-old man from the fishing vessel Captain John Wednesday approximately forty-five miles east of Point Pleasant. 

Another crewmember aboard the Captain John used a marine radio to notify Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay watchstanders of the medical emergency at about 5:30 p.m. 

Watchstanders consulted the duty flight surgeon who recommended a medevac. The Coast Guard then immediately launched an MH-65 Dolphin Helicopter crew from Air Station Atlantic City.

Additionally, a 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew from Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light deployed to provide additional support. 

The man was safely medevaced at about 6:30 p.m. and taken to Air Station Atlantic City where his care was transferred to awaiting emergency medical services personnel.

Communication is key on the water. Having a VHF marine radio is the most reliable way to alert the Coast Guard to emergencies at sea. For more information on marine radios, please visit the U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center.

USCG File Photos:

File Photo USCG Atlantic City (U.S. Coast Guard photo)
USCG File photo: U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class David Weydert
Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Brick Township Man Sentenced to Three Years in NJ State Prison for Terroristic Threats at Jenkinson’s Pavillion Boardwalk Amusements

February 11, 2022

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on February 11, 2022, Nkosi Jones, 20, of Brick Township, was sentenced by the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, J.S.C., to three years New Jersey State Prison as a result of a previously entered guilty plea to Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3(a), in connection with incidents that occurred on June 3, 2021 and June 4, 2021, in Point Pleasant Beach. Jones pled guilty to the charge on December 6, 2021, before Judge Ryan.

On June 3, 2021, at approximately 1:15 p.m., a bomb threat was called in to the main office of Jenkinson’s Pavilion Boardwalk Amusements. The caller indicated he would be planting a bomb on the boardwalk. The call was reported to the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, and the boardwalk was evacuated by law enforcement. The boardwalk reopened for business approximately three hours later. The following day, Jenkinson’s employees fielded another call alluding to a bomb threat. The boardwalk was once again cleared, and reopened after several hours. An investigation by the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Detective Bureau and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit revealed that Jones – an employee of Jenkinson’s Pavilion – placed both of the threatening calls through the voice over IP app TextNow. On June 17, 2021, Jones was arrested as he reported to work at Jenkinson’s. He was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and later released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Kristin Pressman and Assistant Prosecutor Shanon Chant-Berry who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Detective Bureau, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department K-9 Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Point Pleasant Borough Police Department, Brick Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Middletown Township Police Department K-9 Unit, West Windsor Township Police Department K-9 Unit, New Jersey State Parks Police K-9 Unit, Bradley Beach Police Department K-9 Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation, resulting in Jones’ apprehension, guilty plea, and state prison sentence.

Nkosi Jones, 20, of Brick Township
Nkosi Jones, 20, of Brick Township – UPDATED PHOTO 2/11/2022
Nkosi Jones, 20, of Brick Township, was sentenced by the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, J.S.C., to three years New Jersey State Prison as a result of a previously entered guilty plea to Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3(a), in connection with incidents that occurred on June 3, 2021 and June 4, 2021, in Point Pleasant Beach. Jones pled guilty to the charge on December 6, 2021, before Judge Ryan.
Manasquan, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach

Brush Fire Rages on Gull Island in Point Pleasant Beach

January 26, 2022

Story, video and photos by: Ryan Mack Jersey Shore Fire Response

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 12:30 p.m., Point Pleasant Beach received a call for a brush fire on Gull Island across from Point Lobster. The first arriving Chief confirmed the fire and requested mutual aid from Point Pleasant Brough along with Manasquan for their fireboat. The New Jersey State Police Marine unit along with the United States Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet also responded.

Due to dry conditions and high winds today, the fire quickly spread along the bank of the island mostly moving towards the west. Complicating the firefight, most fireboats in the area have been winterized. Manasquan did respond with their fireboat but had pump issues and a replacement pump was brought to the scene. Firefighters were shuttled to the island by the USCG and Tow Boat US. When firefighters made the island, they were able to get water on the fire and contain it. The New Jersey Forrest Fire Service responded, and a helicopter was requested for an air drop but was canceled since firefighters knocked down the fire. The Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office responded, and the cause is under investigation.

Manchester, Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Point Pleasant Beach Man Pleads Guilty to Terroristic Threats and Arson

January 7, 2022

TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on January 7, 2022, Shaun Giberson, 40, of Point Pleasant Beach, pled guilty before the Honorable Michael T. Collins, J.S.C., to Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3a, relative to threats made in Point Pleasant Borough on March 17, 2021.  Giberson also pled guilty to Arson in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:17-1b(1), in connection with an unrelated incident that occurred in Manchester Township on August 18, 2020.  At the time of his sentencing on February 25, 2022, the State will be seeking a term of five years New Jersey State Prison as to each offense.  The sentences are to run concurrently.  

On March 18, 2021, the Point Pleasant Borough Police Department received a report that an anonymous caller had left threatening voicemail messages at both Point Pleasant Borough High School and the Nellie Bennett Elementary School.  A subsequent investigation conducted by the Point Pleasant Borough Police Department revealed that Giberson was the individual responsible for leaving the threatening messages.  On March 18, 2021, Giberson was apprehended by Officers from the Point Pleasant Borough Police Department; he has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since that date.

On August 18, 2020, Officers of the Manchester Township Police Department were summoned to a local group home in reference to a backpack having been set on fire at the home.  The Officers subsequently determined that Giberson – a resident of the group home at the time – intentionally lit the backpack on fire.  He was taken into custody, processed, and released on a summons.

Prosecutor Billhimer commends Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Michael Abatemarco who is handling the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Point Pleasant Borough Police Department and Manchester Township Police Department, for their diligent efforts in connection with these separate investigations, leading to Giberson’s apprehension, guilty pleas, and soon his state prison sentence.

Shaun Giberson, 40, of Point Pleasant Beach
Shaun Giberson, 40, of Point Pleasant Beach, pled guilty before the Honorable Michael T. Collins, J.S.C., to Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3a, relative to threats made in Point Pleasant Borough on March 17, 2021.  Giberson also pled guilty to Arson in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:17-1b(1), in connection with an unrelated incident that occurred in Manchester Township on August 18, 2020.  At the time of his sentencing on February 25, 2022, the State will be seeking a term of five years New Jersey State Prison as to each offense.  The sentences are to run concurrently.  
Atlantic City, Manasquan, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Coast Guard Medevacs Boater Near Manasquan, New Jersey

November 1, 2021

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – The Coast Guard medevaced a boater Monday morning approximately 46 miles east of Manasquan. 

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay received a call from the captain of a fishing vessel that a crewmember was losing and regaining consciousness while having difficulty breathing. 

A Coast Guard Air Station MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew was launched to medevac the crewmember after it was determined that weather conditions would not allow for a boatcrew to safely transfer him ashore. 

The aircrew arrived on scene, hoisted the crewmember, and transported him to Atlantic Care Hospital in Atlantic City. 

  • USCG FILE PHOTO: An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter flight crew prepares to take off for a flight, Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015, from Air Station Atlantic City, N.J. The air station’s crewmembers support a variety of missions, including search and rescue, port security, law enforcement and environmental protection. (U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class David Micallef)
USCG FILE PHOTO
Ocean County, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach

Point Pleasant Beach Community Rallies in Face of Regional Blood Shortage, More than 100 Blood Products Collected to Support Local Youth’s Bone Marrow Transplant 

September 22, 2021

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) hosted a community blood drive on Thursday, Sept. 2 at the Ocean Fire Company # 1 on Arnold Avenue to benefit Giovanni Taurozzi, a local youth who is undergoing a bone marrow transplant from a donor that is not related to him.  The young man’s Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia treatment requires daily blood and platelet transfusions. 

“Most people are aware of the need for blood reserves to support emergency care, such as trauma, as well as for surgeries.  However, patients receiving treatment for cancer of all types, but especially blood cancers, use more blood products than any of these other categories,” said Sally Wells, Business Development Liaison at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.

“Throughout the COVID 19 pandemic maintaining an adequate supply of blood and platelets for our patients has been a tremendous challenge,” said Wells.  “Having such a successful blood drive only a few short hours after Hurricane Ida was quite an accomplishment. I have learned that when the public understands the need, they respond, and they respond in force, as was the case with this drive.   Everyone worked together to make sure there would be blood and platelets available over the long Labor Day holiday weekend.”

The blood drive was organized by a friend of the Taurozzi family, Jennifer Dearborn, and a dynamic group of dedicated volunteers.  The event collected more than 100 blood products thanks to the selfless work of these volunteer and the donors they inspired to participate. 

“My family and I extend our heartfelt thanks to all in response to the recent successful blood drive, said Giovanni Taurozzi. “Our community comes together in a big way wherever there is a need and blood product supplies for emergency and daily needs are low.”

“Special thanks to Jennifer Dearborn, for spearheading the drive, Mike Brodeur and Fire Co #1 providing the space, countless businesses – local and county wide, who provided food and treats, hung a flyer or posted about the event, our volunteers and RWJUH Blood Service team who kept it running smoothly, added Taruozzi. “Lastly and most importantly, thank you to the donors who not only came from Point Pleasant Beach, but surrounding towns, as well as some from a great distance. Without them all of this would not have been possible.”

Local business that supported the effort included Joe Leones Italian specialties, Lenny’s Colonial Market and Sweet Revenge Chocolates, who generously donated of food and treats for the donors.  Borden’s Stationery and Office Supplies and Blazing Visuals helped with marketing, and the Point Beach Fire Company and Police Department provided outstanding support. 

  • Giovanni Taurozzi
The young man’s Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia treatment requires daily blood and platelet transfusions. 

Long Branch, Manasquan, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

U.S. Coast Guard Responds To Sinking Vessel 3 Miles Off Long Branch

September 12, 2021 — Updated with official Coast Guard information.

LONG BRANCH, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Coast Guard members rescued three people after their vessel began taking on water three miles east of Long Branch, Sunday.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay received the initial notification from the Monmouth County 911 dispatcher at 9:14 A.M. that three people aboard a sinking vessel were in need of assistance.

A 47-foot Motor Lifeboat from Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet was dispatched to the scene along with an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, which was diverted from training.

A rescue swimmer was lowered from the helicopter and helped all three people climb aboard the Motor Lifeboat. They were transported to Shark River Marina.

No injuries or medical concerns were reported. All persons rescued were wearing lifejackets.

  • Point Plesant, NJ 2006 File Photo — USCG photo by PAC Tom Sperduto
2006 File Photo

Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Shed Fire In Point Pleasant Beach Quickly Extinguished

August 26, 2021

POINT PLESANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 10:00 a.m., Point Pleasant Beach Police Department received multiple 9-1-1 calls and dispatched the fire department to a shed fire at Broadway and Channel Drive. The fire chief arrived and confirmed the fire. When the first engine arrived, the crew pulled a 1 ¾” line and quickly knocked down the fire. Crews overhauled the scene, and preliminary information is that it was an ice maker that caught fire. No further information is available at this time.

Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response

Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
Middlesex County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach

Newark Teen Sentenced To 7 Years In State Prison For Aggravated Assault Stabbing At Jenkinson’s In Point Pleasant Beach

August 6, 2021

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 6, 2021, Juwan Roman, 18, of Newark, was sentenced by the Honorable Wendel E. Daniels, P.J.Cr.P., to seven years to the custody of the Commissioner of Department of Corrections as a result of previously entered guilty pleas to two counts of Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1), as well as Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d, relative to an incident that occurred in Point Pleasant Beach during the afternoon hours of September 7, 2020.  This sentence is subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2, meaning that Roman will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility. Roman, who was 17-years-old when the crimes occurred, voluntarily waived jurisdiction of the Family Court — which handles juvenile delinquency matters — and agreed to be prosecuted as an adult.  Roman pled guilty to these charges before Judge Daniels on May 13, 2021.

On September 7, 2020, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department responded to multiple 911 calls for reports of a fight on Jenkinson’s Beach.  Responding Officers found Alex Galdamez, 22, and William Mazariego, 18, both of West Haverstraw, New York, suffering from multiple stab wounds.  Both individuals were taken to Jersey Shore Medical Center for treatment of their serious injuries.

An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Point Pleasant Beach Police Department revealed that Roman was the individual responsible for stabbing both Mr. Galdamez and Mr. Mazariego.  Roman was taken into custody without incident at the scene, and has been lodged in the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center since his apprehension on September 7, 2020.

Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Chief Juvenile Assistant Prosecutor Anthony Pierro and Assistant Prosecutor Madeline Buczynski who handled the case on behalf of the State.  Prosecutor Billhimer likewise commends Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation, ultimately leading to Roman’s guilty plea and sentence.

Related MidJersey.news coverage:

18 Year Old Newark Man Pleads Guilty For Sept. 7, 2020 Jenkinson’s Beach Stabbings

Arrests Made In Point Pleasant Beach Stabbings, Victims Identified

Newark Teen Sentenced To 7 Years In State Prison For Aggravated Assault Stabbing At Jenkinson’s In Point Pleasant Beach

  • Juwan Roman, 18, of Newark
Juwan Roman, 18, of Newark, was sentenced by the Honorable Wendel E. Daniels, P.J.Cr.P., to seven years to the custody of the Commissioner of Department of Corrections as a result of previously entered guilty pleas to two counts of Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1), as well as Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d, relative to an incident that occurred in Point Pleasant Beach during the afternoon hours of September 7, 2020.  This sentence is subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2, meaning that Roman will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility. Roman, who was 17-years-old when the crimes occurred, voluntarily waived jurisdiction of the Family Court — which handles juvenile delinquency matters — and agreed to be prosecuted as an adult.  Roman pled guilty to these charges before Judge Daniels on May 13, 2021.
Manasquan, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach

Fishing Boat Hits Rocks In Manasquan Inlet And Sinks

July 28, 2021

Story, Photos and Video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response – MidJersey.News Shore Bureau

MANASQUAN INLET, POINT PLESANT, NJ (0CEAN)–Around 10:40 p.m. last night July 27, 2021 a fishing vessel reported that they were taking on water to the USCG Manasquan Inlet station. Initial reports said they had struck inlet rocks and had a hole in the vessel. Witnesses at the Manasquan Inlet (Point Pleasant Side) said that they saw a boat attempt to leave the inlet but struck the rocks and heard a bang then saw the craft turn around at a decent speed and go back into the inlet. District 27 (Manasquan Fire) was alerted of the boat hitting the rocks and dispatched Marine 27. The U.S. Coast Guard spotted the boat docked at the Wharfside Seafood & Patio Bar partially sunk. Marine 27 and Point Pleasant Beach Police were also on the scene. Two were safely off the craft and on the dock with no injuries. The cause of the crash is still unknown and is being investigated by the USCG & The New Jersey State Police.

MidJersey.News has reached out to the Public Affairs office USCG Atlantic City and NJ State Police and waiting for official press information. Once official public information is received the story will be updated.

Manasquan, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach

U.S. Coast Guard Conducts Medevac 6 Miles Northeast of Manasquan Inlet, New Jersey

July 19, 2021

MANASQUAN INLET, N.J. — The Coast Guard medevaced a man from a 60-foot Arrow yacht approximately 6 miles northeast of Manasquan Inlet on Sunday July 18, 2021.

Watchstanders from U.S. Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay command center and U.S. Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet received notification via VHF channel 16 of a 58-year-old male passenger experiencing shortness of breath.

The Sector Delaware Bay command center consulted with a Coast Guard flight surgeon who recommended to medevac the individual.

A 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew from Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet launched to meet the yacht.

Once on scene, the MLB boatcrew removed the person from the vessel and transferred him to emergency medical services waiting in Shark River Inlet.

“Well prepared mariners who are equipped with all of the necessary safety equipment including reliable communications enable us to assist them in their time of need,” said Mr. Joseph Hartline, Operation Unit Controller at the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay command center.

  • U.S. Coast Guard petty officer Christopher Benya, a crew member aboard the U.S. Coast Guard 47-foot Motor Lifeboat from U.S. Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet, assists in transferring a 58-year-old male in distress to the MLB from a 60-foot Arrow yacht approximately 6 miles northeast of Manasquan Inlet, July 19,2021. The notification was received by U.S. Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay command center via VHF channel 16. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Oficer 3rd Class Christopher Rivera/released)
  • U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies conduct a medical evacuation on a 58-year-old male 6 miles northeast of Manasquan Inlet, New Jersey, July 19, 2021. The notification was received by U.S. Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay command center via VHF channel 16. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Christopher Rivera/released)
  • U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies conduct a medical evacuation on a 58-year-old male 6 miles northeast of Manasquan Inlet, New Jersey, July 19, 2021. The notification was received by U.S. Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay command center via VHF channel 16. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Christopher Rivera/released)
Point Pleasant Beach

Brick, NJ Man Arrested For Terroristic Threats For Two Separate Bomb Threats On Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk

June 17, 2021

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–The Point Pleasant Beach Police Department announced the arrest of Nkosi Jones, 19 years of age, from Brick, NJ.   After an investigation conducted by detectives from this department, Nkosi Jones was charged with; (2) two counts of False Public Alarm, a second degree crime and (2) two counts of Terroristic Threats, a third degree crime for calling in two separate bomb threats on the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk.

On Thursday, June 3, 2021 at approximately 1315 hrs. the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department responded to Jenkinson’s Main Business Offices on the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk for a report of the business receiving a phone call reporting a bomb threat. Due to the nature of the threat, members of this agency, with the assistance of several other law enforcement agencies immediately evacuated the boardwalk, beach, and surrounding businesses. Several bomb detection K9’s were brought in and the entire boardwalk was searched. At approximately 1600 hrs. the boardwalk was deemed safe and reopened to the public.

On Friday, June 4, 2021 Jenkinson’s Main Business Office received another phone call reporting a bomb threat.  This department evacuated the boardwalk, beaches, and surrounding businesses, and called in numerous K9 bomb detection teams to clear the boardwalk once again.

Chief Joseph A. Michigan stated, “I’d like to thank all of the surrounding agencies that responded on two separate occasions to assist our officers with evacuating and searching the boardwalk.” “I’d also like to acknowledge the members of my detective bureau for their hard work and efforts in this investigation to locate and identify Mr. Jones as the suspect who made the threatening phone calls on both June 3rd and June 4th.”

Mr. Jones was taken into custody without incident, processed, and transported to Ocean County Jail pending future court proceedings.  If anyone has any additional information about these incidents, please contact the Detective Bureau at 732-892-0500 ext. 173.

Mr. Jones has been only charged with these crimes and is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Charge Information
Case #Offense DateCodeDescriptionGradeDegree
w202100005615252C:33-3BPLACE FALSE BOMBB
w202100005615252C:12-3ATHREATENS VIOLENCEC
w202100005715252C:33-3BPLACE FALSE BOMBB
w202100005715252C:12-3ATHREATENS VIOLENCEC
Ocean County Jail Photo