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1 person remains missing after search in waters off Rockaway Beach
By
Phil Corso
Published May 19, 2026
Modified May 20, 2026
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Mostafa Bassim/Anadolu via Getty Images
By
Phil Corso
Published May 19, 2026
Modified May 20, 2026
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One person was reported missing in the ocean after emergency crews searched the waters off Beach 73rd Street in Queens on Tuesday, authorities said.
FDNY officials said the call came in around 3:30 p.m. near Shore Front Parkway in Rockaway Beach.
Rescue swimmers, drones and marine units searched the area for more than an hour, the fire department said.
Officials said divers ended their initial search around 4:50 p.m., after marine units found no sign of the missing person.
The person was still missing as of early Wednesday morning, according to the NYPD. The police department is taking over the investigation and said it may resume search operations later Wednesday.
City Councilmember Selvena Brooks Powers, who represents the area, said the missing person is an 18-year-old man.
One civilian evaluated at the scene sustained minor injuries but refused medical transport, officials said.
Michael Sol Warren contributed reporting. This story is based on preliminary information from public safety officials and has been updated with additional details.
Tagged
beaches
new york city
public safety
queens
rockaway beach
swimming
Phil Corso
Phil Corso is the evening news editor at WNYC/Gothamist. Got a tip? Email [email protected].
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