Category: Point Pleasant Beach

Bay Head, Beach Haven, Belmar, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach

Breaking: Search For Missing 24-Year-Old Swimmer In Beach Haven

Update: Person is being transported to local hospital for treatment. The family says the person has passed away and once we have confirmed with Gofundme representatives we will post the Gofundme page for the Beach Haven swimmer. Two swimming tragedies this past weekend Seaside Park and Beach Haven.

Missing Swimmer Recovered In Seaside Park This Morning Identified As Howell Township Man

See updates below for other area incidents including missing swimmer in Seaside Heights

September 3, 2023-Updated September 4, 2023

BEACH HAVEN, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 2:53 p.m. lifeguards, police and EMS were detailed to 5th Street for a submerged swimmer. Two people were pulled from the water but a third a reported 24-year-old male was missing. The fire department was requested as well as NJ State Police Marine Division and the United States Coast Guard to help with the search.

As of 3:17 p.m. the search is still ongoing for the 24-year-old missing swimmer.

3:38 p.m. NJ State Police helicopter on scene assisting in search.

3:45 p.m. U.S. Coast Guard starting vector search with helicopter.

4:08 p.m. there are reports of a body being recovered from the water and CPR in progress.

First Aid and Paramedics treating the victim and preparing for transport to hospital.

Beach Haven First Aid and Paramedics transporting the victim to the local hospital for treatment: (Photos taken just before 5:00 p.m. in Ship Bottom)

Times are approximate

Once official information is released the story will be updated.

Beach Haven First Aid and Paramedics transporting the victim to the local hospital for treatment: (Photos taken just before 5:00 p.m. in Ship Bottom)

Multiple other incidents this afternoon too many to keep up with. Some are listed below:

BERKELEY TOWNSHIP- ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK–In another incident about 5:00 p.m. there are reports of CPR being performed on Island Beach State Park on the beach at Area 23 reports of 70-year-old male in cardiac arrest.

SURF CITY –At 5:20 p.m. a medical helicopter was called to 12 Street Surf City for a traumatic injury. Pulling the person off the beach and victim will be flown to a hospital for treatment.

NJ State Police medical helicopter landed at 5:40 p.m. at EJ Elementary School recreation field commonly used for landing zones on the island.

The person was transported to Atlantic City Medical Center by NJ State Police helicopter.

Numerous other water rescues in Seaside Park, and Belmar late this afternoon.

BERKELEY TOWNSHIP ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK – a young male has been pulled from the water and not breathing around 6:50 p.m.

Landing Zone for helicopter will be at the Governor Mansion on Island Beach State Park. RWJ University Hospital helicopter en route at 7:08 p.m. 7:18 p.m. helicopter canceled for transport.

SEASIDE HEIGHTS— Several swimmers in distress rescued reports of 27 year old male missing.

Calling for Aqua Eyes sonar for missing person search. Still missing as of 8:15 p.m.

Search called off for tonight will resume in morning.

9/4/2023 Update for Seaside from Seaside Park Fire Company:

Yesterday morning at 5:21 a.m. the Seaside Park Fire Department was dispatched with zone 1 for a forest fire assignment, 4531’s crew spent 12 hours on a structural protection assignment. While that assignment was being conducted other crews responded to multiple other emergencies in town and in the State Park. These emergencies included multiple water rescues. When the crew from the forest fire returned they assisted the other 2 crews for a total of 10 emergencies for the day. Unfortunately, the final call of the day was a tragic one and someone did not get to go home with their family. Crews were on the Stockton Ave beach until after 9:00 p.m. on a recovery mission. Some of our members left their homes and did not return for 17 hours yesterday. We cannot stress enough the importance of staying out of the ocean when the lifeguards are off duty, we remind the public that today is the last day of guarded beaches in Seaside Park!

POINT PLEASANT BEACH – 7:30 p.m units responding for a submerged subject. 3 subjects out of water and safe.

BAY HEAD – Reports of 3 swimmers in water in distress all out upon arrival of first responders.

BELMAR — At approximately 6:06pm, the Belmar Police Department received a report of a group swimmers in distress off the 6th Avenue beach. Upon police arrival, multiple Belmar lifeguards/ Water Rescue members had entered the water and were able to rescue five swimmers. Another unresponsive swimmer was rescued from the water at the 5th Avenue beach and transported to Jersey Shore University Hospital. Two other swimmers were also transported to the hospital. There is no further information at this time.

Surf City New Jersey State Police medical helicopter lands for reported trauma victim.
Bridgewater Township, Franklin Township, Hunterdon County, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach, Somerset, Wall

Local High School Students Awarded Scholarships for Advocacy and Support of Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation

July 14, 2023

NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ – Ten New Jersey high school students were awarded scholarships from the Sharing Network Foundation for their passion and dedication to raising awareness of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The Class of 2023 graduates were presented with their scholarship awards at NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence. The Sharing Network Foundation’s scholarships are made possible thanks to several of the organization’s family and partner funds: 

  • Hearts for Emma Partner Fund – created in celebration of Emma Rothman’s life-saving heart transplant to support high school education and donation advocacy efforts.
  • Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund – created in memory of Jim Rhatican, a NJ Sharing Network Volunteer, liver transplant recipient and retired teacher and coach of 35 years.
  • Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund – created in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of Missy Rodriguez’s life-saving liver transplant to follow her passion as a college counselor through scholarships for high school students.
  • Riley’s Path – created in memory of organ donor Riley Kogen to provide financial assistance to transplant patients in times of crisis, and to award scholarships to high school students and advocacy heroes.

 The 2023 scholarship recipients are: 

  • Sophia Fliegler of Mendham, NJ (2023 graduate of Randolph High School) received a scholarship from Hearts for Emma Partner Fund. Sophia’s heart failed when she was only two weeks old. She was given a second chance to live life to its fullest thanks to a successful heart transplant. She has made it a priority to honor the memory of her heart donor by advocating for NJ Sharing Network’s mission. Sophia has participated in transplant reunions, online discussion forums, social media chats, and the 5K Celebration of Life. She plans to attend the County College of Morris in the fall. “I like to think that I am living a life for both myself and my donor, as my donor never had the opportunity to do so,” said Sophia. “I hope that my donor is looking down and happy with the life ‘we’ are living.
  • Emily Blomkvist of Asbury, NJ (2023 graduate of North Hunterdon High School) received a scholarship from Hearts for Emma Partner Fund. Emily’s father received a life-saving heart transplant six years ago. Since then, her two greatest missions have been promoting the importance of organ and tissue donation and the need for blood donation. Emily has been recognized for her tireless efforts to promote events at North Hunterdon High School and in her local community. She plans to attend Lehigh University in the fall. “I will never forget that we were at my cousin’s sixth birthday party when my dad received a call from the hospital telling him to get there as soon as possible because they had found a heart for his transplant,” said Emily.
  • Caitlin Knorr of Berkeley Heights, NJ (2023 graduate of Governor Livingston High School) received a scholarship from the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund. Caitlin was born with a Hemangioendothelioma of the liver, a rare and deadly disease. She received a life-saving liver transplant when she was just five weeks old, and a second liver transplant three weeks before her second birthday. Caitlin’s experiences inspired her, her mother, and her sister to become certified volunteers for NJ Sharing Network. She has shared her story at community events and encouraged her classmates to register as organ and tissue donors. Caitlin plans to attend the University of Arizona in the fall. “I feel blessed, and my life experiences are why I have chosen to pursue my studies in the medical field,” said Caitlin. “I will continue to be a huge advocate for organ and tissue donation for the remainder of my life. I want to give hope to those who are waiting for a life-saving transplant.”
  • Maxwell Moore of West Milford, NJ (2023 graduate of West Milford High School) received a scholarship from the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund. Maxwell had just turned 15 years old when he developed severe shortness of breath while on vacation with his family. He was hospitalized and diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension. His condition continued to become more critical until he received a double-lung transplant in July 2020. Since his near-death experience, Maxwell has been passionate about advocating for organ and tissue donation, including leading educational presentations for the Safe Driver’s Club and the Driver’s Education class. Maxwell plans to attend Endicott College in Beverly, Massachusetts in the fall. “As I go off to college, I hope to bring awareness to my fellow classmates about the importance of organ and tissue donation,” said Maxwell. “I will proudly share my story with anyone who wishes to listen.”
  • Amelia Rowniewski of Wallington, NJ (2023 graduate of Applied Tech High School) received a scholarship from the Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund. Amelia was just two years old when she had severe cold symptoms and was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. Unfortunately, Amelia’s condition worsened as her kidneys began to fail and she struggled to breathe. Her life was saved thanks to a successful kidney transplant in 2008. Amelia honors the memory of her donor by volunteering for NJ Sharing Network and the American Kidney Fund. She has met with members of Congress to advocate for policies to support kidney patients and their families and has shared her personal story to encourage others to register as organ and tissue donors. Amelia plans to attend American University in Washington D.C. in the fall. “Thanks to my donor hero, I have been able to attend concerts, make close friends, and be accepted to college,” said Amelia. “Most fulfilling of all, I’ve been able to meet and mentor younger people with organ transplants and help them get through their everyday struggles.
  • Veronica Sutkowski of Carteret, NJ (2023 graduate of East Brunswick Charter School) received a scholarship from the Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund. Veronica was in second grade when her mother’s life was saved thanks to a successful liver transplant. This emotional experience helped Veronica understand the powerful impact of organ and tissue donation and inspired her to volunteer for NJ Sharing Network. She even proudly wore NJ Sharing Network’s Miss Pumps mascot costume to bring energy and fun to community events and activities. Veronica plans to attend Rutgers University in the fall. “My mother’s hard road to transplant allowed me to realize that things are not as easy as they may seem and there will be challenges in life to get to the good parts,” said Veronica. “I aspire to be in the medical field and possibly help with transplant recipients like my mother one day.”
  • Nina D’Apolito of Wall, NJ (2023 graduate of Wall High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. As a member of Wall High School’s Donate Life Club, Nina took the lead in developing new and creative ways to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation. Nina played a key role in creating a “Celebration of Life Garden” in the school courtyard. She, along with her peers, painted and decorated “Donate Life” rocks that were used in a scavenger hunt and then placed along the flowerbeds of the garden and in the school’s media center. Nina also promoted the club’s efforts on social media to raise additional awareness. Nina plans to attend the University of Vermont in the fall. “Everyone deserves a chance to experience the highest possible quality of life,” said Nina. “I am proud to be a registered organ and tissue donor. It gives me peace to know that when I pass away, I can potentially save up to eight lives.”
  • Jacob Grabell of Bridgewater, NJ (2023 graduate of Bridgewater Raritan High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. Last year, Jacob’s family suffered a terrible tragedy when his father died suddenly from a heart attack. Jacob has shown great resiliency and maturity by supporting his mother and younger siblings while also volunteering his time to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Jacob has served as an assistant Hebrew school teacher and as a coach in youth basketball and soccer. He also coordinated a bone marrow drive during the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center Community Day. Jacob plans to attend Rutgers University in the fall. “My father made sure that my siblings and I understood the importance of having a lasting impact on the community,” said Jacob. “He was also a registered organ donor, in hopes of saving others. He put others before himself and this ever-lasting lesson is one of many things I will take with me from our time together.”
  • Charbel Hachem of Franklin, NJ (2023 graduate of Franklin High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. Charbel will never forget the many times that he and his family rushed to the hospital to visit his father during his battle with cancer. After many surgeries and procedures, the only hope for Charbel’s father was an organ transplant. One of their family members donated part of their liver and pancreas to save his life. This inspired Charbel to help educate his classmates about the importance of registering as an organ and tissue donor. He also began volunteering with the American Red Cross to support local communities. Charbel plans to attend Concordia University in Canada in the fall. “It is my ambition to one day work in a hospital, performing the very same innovative surgeries that saved my father,” said Charbel.
  • Noah Kuzloski of Point Pleasant Beach, NJ (2023 graduate of Christian Brothers Academy) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. In July 2022, Noah’s family experienced an unthinkable tragedy when his aunt and 3-year-old cousin passed away following a motor vehicle accident. Noah’s cousin saved the lives of three young boys through the miracle of organ and tissue donation. Since that moment, Noah has shared his story with friends and classmates to encourage them to register as organ and tissue donors. He plans to attend SUNY Maritime College in the fall. “Organ and tissue donation has greatly impacted my life because it brought me peace knowing that my cousin was able to save the lives of others,” said Noah. “It also gave me a way to deal with the pain of losing her. She is a hero.”

 The Sharing Network Foundation’s scholarship program provides an opportunity to recognize and award graduating high school seniors whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Applicants were measured on academic achievement, community and volunteer efforts, extracurricular activities and advocacy for organ and tissue donation. Since the scholarship program’s inception in 2011, more than $120,000 has been awarded to 55 dedicated student advocates. 

“We are grateful for the generous support of our partner funds and their ongoing commitment to rewarding students who share a commitment to our life-saving mission,” said Amanda Tibok, Executive Director, Sharing Network Foundation. “We know that all of our scholarship awardees will continue as strong leaders educating others about donation and transplantation throughout their college years and beyond.” 

Front Row – (Left-to-right) The Sharing Network Foundation’s 2023 scholarship recipients Noah Kuzloski of Point Pleasant Beach, Maxwell Moore of West Milford, Jacob Grabell of Bridgewater, Veronica Sutkowski of Carteret, Emily Blomkvist of Asbury, Caitlin Knorr of Berkeley Heights, Sophia Fliegler of Mendham, and Amelia Rowniewski of Wallington. Not pictured are Charbel Hachem of Franklin and Nina D’Apolito of Wall. (Back Row – Standing behind students – Left-to-right) Julie Nelson and Jay Rhatican of the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund, Mitch Kogen of the Riley’s Path Fund, Nancie Rothman of the Hearts for Emma Partner Fund, and Missy Rodriguez of the Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund. Photo Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network

Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Wind Whipped 2-Alarm House Fire In Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

April 29, 2023

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 10:00 p.m., last night, April 28, Point Pleasant Beach police received a 9-1-1 call for a reported structure fire at 37 Arnold Avenue. When the police arrived, they confirmed the house was on fire. There were reports of issues with a nearby fire hydrant that seemed to fall apart and disconnect from the water main. A second alarm was called for as firefighters attempted to extinguish the fire on the third floor of the home that was wind whipped due to high winds from stormy weather. Firefighters started to make progress knocking down the fire but were beaten back by the flames and the building started to collapse as the evacuation signal was given.

Operating at the scene: Ocean Fire Company No.1, Point Pleasant Beach Fire Company No.2, Point Pleasant Borough Station 75, Silverton Station 29, Brielle 99-1, South Wall 52-3, and others.

No additional details are available at this time. The fire is under investigation by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office.

Video below by: Jersey Shore Fire Response

Jersey Shore Fire Response Video

Video sent into MidJersey.News below:

Photos sent into MidJersey.news above.

Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Truck Crashes Into Point Plesant Beach Home

April 6, 2023

POINT PLESANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Point Plesant Beach Police reported that at approximately 3:05 p.m., yesterday, April 5, 2023, officers were dispatched to the area of Route 35 North and McLean Ave. for a truck that drove through a utility pole, then drove into a nearby residence. The operator of the truck, Ronald Bennett, 55, of Point Pleasant, was treated at the scene by The Point Pleasant First Aid & Rescue Squad and transported to the hospital. There were no other reported injuries and the residence was unoccupied at the time of the accident. Ocean Fire Company and Point Pleasant Beach Fire Company #2, were dispatched and responded to the scene. They assisted in checking the residence for occupants and securing the accident scene because of downed electrical lines. JCP&L responded and there was a brief power loss to the north end area surrounding Rt. 35 that affected several residences and businesses. Power was restored yesterday by JCP&L. NJ State DOT responded and assisted with diverting traffic from the area on Route 35 North near the accident scene. Route 35 North was opened back up last night, but due to ongoing work by utility companies, has only one lane of travel in the area where the accident occurred. South Wall Fire Rescue and the Brick Township RUST team responded with rescue teams to assist in the safe removal of the vehicle from the residence. Point Pleasant Beach DPW and the Ladies Auxiliary from both Point Pleasant Beach Fire Companies responded and assisted at the scene as well. The incident is being investigated by Point Plesant Beach Police Officer Bryan Benites and is ongoing at this time.

Photos by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response

Ocean County, Point Pleasant Beach

Five Point Plesant Residents Charged With Narcotics Distribution

March 20, 2023

TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force collaborated with United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Detective Bureau, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Patrol Division, and Point Pleasant Beach Police Department K-9 Unit, to conduct a investigation into the distribution of cocaine in Ocean County, specifically in the Point Pleasant Beach area. This cooperative, multi-agency two month investigation identified a residence in Point Pleasant Beach as being utilized by Pablo Lezama, 43, Magdaleno Navasantos, 45, Felix Pacheco, 31, Miguel Alonso, 27, and Angel Pacheco, 44, all of Point Pleasant Beach, to store and distribute cocaine.

Detectives from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies initiated surveillance on the subject residence in Point Pleasant Beach.  On March 17, 2023, the Ocean County Northern Regional SWAT Team executed a court authorized search warrant on the subject residence.  As a result, law enforcement seized a quantity of cocaine individually packaged for distribution, and drug paraphernalia indicative of narcotics manufacturing and distribution.  All five defendants were arrested at the residence on March 17, 2023.

Pablo Lezama was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Hindering Apprehension.  Lezama was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

Magdaleno Navasantos was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Navasantos was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

Felix Pacheco was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Pacheco was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

Miguel Alonso was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Hindering Apprehension.  Alonso was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.

Angel Pacheco was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Pacheco was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.

Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, the Ocean County Northern Regional SWAT Team, United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Detective Bureau, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Patrol Division, and Point Pleasant Beach Police Department K-9 Unit, for their combined and collective efforts in connection with this investigation.

The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

R.P.C.  3.6(b)(6).

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
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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