Tragic Incident Claims Life of Maryland Teen at Corolla Beach

Corolla, North Carolina – A devastating event took place on Saturday, July 27, 2024, when a 13-year-old boy from Maryland lost his life while swimming at the beach in Corolla.

Missing Swimmer Call Triggers Emergency Response

The situation unfolded at approximately 12:49 p.m. when Corolla Fire and Rescue received a call regarding a missing swimmer. In response, Currituck Fire and Rescue promptly requested assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard based in Elizabeth City. The Coast Guard reacted swiftly, deploying a MH60 Jayhawk helicopter to initiate an aerial search starting from the vicinity of Persimmon Street, where the young swimmer was last seen.

Comprehensive Search Efforts Underway

Despite extensive aerial searches conducted by the Coast Guard, no sign of the boy was found during the initial investigation. By around 4 p.m., they ended their search efforts, leaving the situation in the hands of local rescue teams.

Meanwhile, a dedicated team of 16 lifeguards from Corolla Beach Rescue sprang into action, conducting line dives along the beach. These skilled rescuers formed a line, diving repeatedly to feel the ocean floor in their quest to locate the missing teen. Their operation was methodical, as they shifted their search south before turning back north to cover all possible areas.

Tragic Discovery at Low Tide

After tirelessly searching for three and a half hours, the tide began to recede. It was during this low tide that one of the divers made the heartbreaking discovery of the boy’s body. The victim’s name has yet to be released, but the community mourns the loss of this young life.

Community Grieves

This tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the Corolla community, reminding everyone of the potential dangers associated with ocean swimming. In the days following the event, conversations among residents have shifted toward safety measures and awareness when enjoying the beautiful beaches of Corolla.