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.
The post Search Underway After A Person Reportedly Jumps From Route 72 Bridge appeared first on Jersey Shore Online.
