U.S. Marine Missing After Swimming in High Surf off Puerto Rico's Northeast Coast

Tragedy Strikes in Puerto Rico

The U.S. Coast Guard is currently conducting a search for 26-year-old Samuel Wanjiru from Massachusetts, who went missing after swimming in high surf off Puerto Rico’s northeast coast.

Tourist Tragedy

Another American tourist tragically died in northwest Puerto Rico after rescuing his teenage children who had been swept away by heavy surf. The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday.

Deadly Month

According to Capt. Jose E. Díaz, commander of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan, this month has seen an increase in beach drownings in the area of Puerto Rico. The situation has become increasingly serious and limits the Coast Guard's ability to respond to search and rescue cases with surface vessels without further endangering their crews and assets.

High Surf Advisory

A high surf advisory was issued late Tuesday for Puerto Rico’s northwest, north, and northeast coasts. The warning will remain in effect until late Thursday, with waves reaching heights of up to 12 feet.

Lifeguard Absence

It is important to note that most open ocean beaches in Puerto Rico do not have lifeguards, as highlighted by Díaz. This absence of lifeguards poses additional risks to beachgoers.