21-Year-Old Man Dies After North Wildwood, NJ, Ocean Rescue

A man from Turkey died Thursday after being pulled unconscious from the ocean in North Wildwood
Surfers located the man and brought him to shore before emergency responders arrived
Police remind beachgoers to swim where lifeguards are on duty

North Wildwood, N.J. — A 21-year-old man from Turkey died Thursday afternoon after being pulled unconscious from the ocean near 2nd Avenue in North Wildwood by surfers who entered the water before emergency responders arrived.

The North Wildwood Police Department said Ahmet Yimenici was taken to Cooper University Hospital-Cape Regional, where he was pronounced dead. At this time, the incident does not appear to involve foul play.

Surfers Find Unconscious Swimmer

According to authorities, North Wildwood police, fire, and beach patrol personnel responded to the beach around 2:09 PM. By the time they arrived, multiple surfers had already located Yimenici in the water. First responders immediately began life-saving measures on shore.

Chief Katherine Madden acknowledged the surfers and bystanders who acted without hesitation. "Their willingness to act without hesitation gave this young man the best possible chance, and we're grateful for their courage," she said.

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Authorities are reminding beachgoers to swim only in areas where lifeguards are present and on duty in North Wildwood.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the North Wildwood Police Department Detective Bureau at (609) 522-2411. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the department's website.

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Gallery Credit: Chris Coleman

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Gallery Credit: Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is a South Jersey native and has been a cornerstone of the Atlantic City radio market since 1998. He serves as Brand Manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 and afternoon on-air personality for WPUR Cat Country 107.3. A five-time President's Circle award winner and Townsquare Media's 2024 Content Creator of the Year, Chris covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey. Story tips: chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com.