Search for Missing Swimmer Continues

The search for a swimmer who went missing off Bradley Beach early yesterday evening continues today.

Authorities have gathered on the beach at Brinley Avenue to assist local and Coast Guard dive teams and boats in their search for 15-year-old Naisere Nelson of Neptune. 

Friends and family of the boy have again gathered on the sand at Bradley Beach, where the scene has taken a decidedly more somber tone as what was once a rescue mission becomes a recovery mission.

Nelson went missing Thursday evening before 6 p.m. He had apparently been swimming when he and two others nearby became distressed.

The other two swimmers, identified by authorities as Victor Pierez and Stephanie Crespo, 27 and 28, of Elizabeth, were able to reach shore and were treated for water inhalation and a knee injury, respectively. Nelson is no relation to Pierez or Crespo.

The search for Nelson was disrupted last night as severe thunderstorms swept through the area. Only the United States Coast Guard continued through the weather.

Earlier in the day Thursday,  were reported at the borough's Lareine Avenue beach, one block from the scene of the missing swimmer.

Bradley Beach lifeguards are currently only working weekends. They will begin full-time watches next week.

An early June heat wave brought unexpected crowds to area beaches Wednesday and Thursday with many looking to the ocean as a respite from the oppressive, record-breaking heat.