PITMAN, NJ – Tragedy struck in Gloucester County, New Jersey, as the body of Rafael Martinez Pascual was found after a drowning incident at Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area in Monroe Township on Thursday, August 29th.
The 23-year-old, who was originally from Mexico but had been living in Pitman, New Jersey, was enjoying a day out swimming with friends when things took a devastating turn.
According to police, Pascual disappeared under the water, prompting an urgent and extensive search that involved multiple local agencies.
The rescue operation was a large response by local authorities, with divers, special watercraft, a helicopter, and even drones being deployed to locate him.
Despite their best efforts, Pascual’s body was not recovered until around 5 p.m., approximately three hours after he went missing.
This heartbreaking incident is not an isolated one. It marks the fourth drowning in Monroe Township this summer, raising concerns about water safety in the area.
As investigators continue to look into the circumstances surrounding Pascual’s death, the community is left grappling with the loss of another life to the waters of Cedar Lake.
With summer in full swing and many heading to lakes and rivers to cool off, officials are urging everyone to be cautious and aware of the potential dangers. It’s a reminder of how quickly a day of fun can turn into a tragedy.
