Advocacy group questions timing as officials investigate cause of death
Sandy Hook, NJ – A dead humpback whale washed ashore at Sandy Hook Wednesday morning, prompting an investigation and renewed public debate over offshore wind activity along the New Jersey coast.
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center reported receiving a call at approximately 7:50 a.m. about a whale floating just offshore. Within 30 minutes, officials confirmed the animal had come ashore.
A trained volunteer responded and identified the whale as a humpback measuring about 30 feet in length. The organization said its stranding coordinator is working with local agencies to develop a recovery and disposal plan, while a team is being assembled to conduct a necropsy.
Advocacy group raises offshore wind concerns
Key Points
- Dead humpback whale discovered at Sandy Hook Wednesday morning
- Marine Mammal Stranding Center preparing necropsy to determine cause of death
- Advocacy group links timing to resumed offshore wind construction
The group Save Long Beach Island (SaveLBI) pointed to the timing of the discovery, noting that construction has resumed on the Empire Wind 1 offshore project, located about 19 miles off the coast.
“Another whale has washed ashore on the NJ coast—a humpback, approximately 30 feet long, found in Sandy Hook today,” the group said in a statement.
The group also acknowledged responders, stating, “Grateful to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center for their tireless efforts responding to these heartbreaking events.”
Cause of death under investigation
Officials emphasized that no cause of death has been determined. A necropsy will be conducted as part of the investigation, with findings expected to be released through the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.
The discovery adds to ongoing concerns and public discussion surrounding marine life along the East Coast, though officials have not confirmed any connection between this incident and offshore wind activity.
