The U.S. Coast Guard announced today that a U.S. Marine is currently being sought after he went swimming in rough waters off the northeast coast of Puerto Rico during his vacation. In a separate incident, another American tourist tragically lost his life in the treacherous surf.
Authorities have named the missing Marine as Samuel Wanjiru, a 26-year-old from Massachusetts who was on the island with his family. He was last seen on Wednesday afternoon entering the water at La Pared beach in Luquillo. A video shared by Puerto Rico's Bureau of Emergency Management and Disaster Administration on social media depicted divers leaping from a helicopter in an effort to locate the individual.
Additionally, on the same day, a different American tourist passed away in northwest Puerto Rico after reportedly rescuing his teenage children who had been caught in the powerful waves.
Deadly Beach Drownings in Puerto Rico Prompt Warning from U.S. Coast Guard
"The recent spike in beach drownings in Puerto Rico this month has been alarming," stated Capt. Jose E. Díaz, the commander of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan. He emphasized the seriousness of the situation, highlighting the challenges faced by rescue teams in responding to these incidents while ensuring the safety of their crews and assets. Díaz extended his condolences to the families affected by these tragedies, offering thoughts and prayers during this difficult period.
An official high surf advisory was issued on Tuesday for Puerto Rico's northwest, north, and northeast coasts, effective until late Thursday. The advisory warned of waves reaching heights of up to 12 feet (4 meters), posing additional risks to beachgoers and swimmers.
It was highlighted by Díaz that many open ocean beaches in Puerto Rico lack lifeguards, underscoring the need for caution and awareness among visitors to these areas.
