Update from Stafford Police as of 3:10 p.m. on 11/26:
Authorities say recovery efforts are still underway for a 19-year-old Monmouth County man after a motorist reported seeing someone jump from the Route 72 Causeway Bridge late on November 25.
Crews searched through the night and into the morning, but progress was slowed by strong winds, heavy rain, and poor visibility. Conditions remain challenging, officials said, with fast-moving currents, shifting tides, gusty winds, and cold water complicating the operation.
Multiple agencies have assisted throughout the day, including the Stafford Township Fire Department, United States Coast Guard, Barnegat Township Police Department Marine Unit, New Jersey State Police Marine Unit, Seaside Heights Fire Department, West Tuckerton Fire Department Dive Team, and several local officers using their personal boats.
Investigators say there is no indication the incident is criminal, but the investigation remains active.
Original story below
STAFFORD — A large multi-agency search operation continues after a driver reported seeing a person jump from the Route 72 Causeway Bridge into the frigid Barnegat Bay.
Exit 74 Scanner News was the first to report the incident a little after 10 p.m. on November 25.
Stafford Township Police said a passerby contacted dispatch after witnessing a person go over the side of the bridge. Responding officers found an unoccupied gray Toyota Camry parked at the top of the span. The vehicle belongs to a 19-year-old Monmouth County man, according to police.
Search crews have deployed helicopters, rescue boats, and drones across the area as the effort continues. Authorities urged the public not to operate personal drones in the area, warning they could interfere with search aircraft.
Agencies assisting in the operation include the U.S. Coast Guard, New Jersey State Police Marine Unit, Stafford Township Volunteer Fire and EMS, Ship Bottom Police, and Barnegat Police.
Dive teams from Stations 47 and 71 were staging along Route 72, and multiple boats were in the water by 11 p.m. Residents along the bayfront in Surf City reported helicopters circling overhead.
Authorities noted the emotional challenges many people face during the holiday season and encouraged anyone struggling to seek help.
If you or someone you know is in crisis:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
- NJ Hopeline: 1-855-654-6735
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- NJ Mental Health Cares: 1-866-202-HELP
You’re not alone, and help is always available.
We will bring you any additional updates as police release information to us.
