BELMAR, N.J. — A man died Thursday night after falling into the water near the Highway 35 bridge, prompting a large-scale rescue effort, authorities said.
The Belmar Police Department received a report around 9 p.m. of a person in the water near the bridge. Upon arrival, officers found the victim submerged on the opposite side of the walkway railing.
A witness, who saw the man fall over the railing from the walkway, was attempting to assist him. The victim was unresponsive and did not respond to officers’ instructions.
Emergency personnel from multiple agencies, including the Belmar Water Rescue Team, Avon Police Department, Neptune City Police Department, Wall Township Police and EMS, and paramedics from Jersey Shore University Medical Center, responded to assist.
Rescue teams successfully lifted the man from the water, and lifesaving measures were initiated immediately. He was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, where medical staff continued efforts for about 80 minutes. The victim was later pronounced dead.
The Belmar Police Department is investigating the incident. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
