Search Continues for Young Man Lost in Ocean Near 45th Avenue South
NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – A large-scale search is underway for a 21-year-old swimmer who disappeared in the waters off North Myrtle Beach on Wednesday night, prompting continued rescue efforts involving multiple agencies.
The swimmer was last seen near 45th Avenue South, where emergency crews from the North Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue, local police, and the U.S. Coast Guard launched a coordinated search both on land and at sea.
One Swimmer Rescued, Second Still Missing
The emergency began around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday when authorities received reports of two swimmers in distress. Responders were able to rescue an 18-year-old swimmer, who was taken to a hospital as a precaution. However, the second swimmer, age 21, could not be located despite immediate efforts.
Crews scoured the beach between 48th Avenue South and Main Street, with police and rescue swimmers entering the water and a Coast Guard helicopter conducting a night-time grid search across the shoreline — from Windy Hill to Cherry Grove.
Emergency Presence Remains Strong
By Thursday afternoon, officials reported a visible and active emergency presence along the beach. In a public statement, the City of North Myrtle Beach said crews were still searching and urged the public to avoid the area and follow instructions from first responders.
“There is a visible presence of emergency vehicles in the area as crews continue their coordinated efforts,” the city shared on Facebook.
Community Prayers Amid Uncertainty
The incident drew attention from beachgoers and vacationers. One witness, Olivia Dean, who was vacationing with family, recalled seeing flashing lights from inside their rental and stepping outside to find the shoreline swarmed with emergency responders.
“You don’t know who it is,” Dean said. “It’s someone’s someone. A lot of prayers were going around in my family.”
Investigation and Support
Authorities have not released the identity of the missing swimmer. The ongoing search continues to span both air and sea, with local fire and police units rotating shifts to cover the expansive coastal area.
Residents and visitors are being reminded to take extreme caution when swimming, especially in areas with strong currents and no lifeguards present.
Do you have information or were present during the incident? Share your experience or offer your support to the family at saludastandard-sentinel.com — every voice helps bring awareness and strength to our coastal community.
