Teenager Missing After Swimming Incident at Popular Beach
An 18-year-old man has disappeared while swimming at Little Bay Beach in Arakoon, located within the South West Rocks area on the NSW Mid North Coast. Emergency services rushed to the scene on Sunday afternoon after receiving reports that the teenager had encountered difficulties in the water.
Emergency Response and Search Operation
Police were alerted at approximately 4:20pm on Sunday following concerns for the young swimmer's welfare. Officers from the Mid North Coast Police District coordinated with specialists from the Marine Area Command and Surf Life Saving NSW to mount a comprehensive search operation.
Despite extensive efforts by all emergency services involved, authorities were unable to locate the missing teenager during Sunday's search. The operation covered both the shoreline and surrounding waters of the popular beach area.
Search Suspended Overnight, Set to Resume
The search was formally suspended as darkness fell on Sunday evening, with plans to resume at first light on Monday. The challenging conditions and fading light necessitated the temporary halt to operations.
Local authorities have emphasised that the search for the missing 18-year-old remains an active priority. Additional resources are expected to join the effort when operations recommence on Monday morning.
Appeal for Public Assistance
Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward immediately. Investigators have specifically requested that people contact Crime Stoppers with any details that could assist in locating the missing young man.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers associated with swimming at unsupervised beaches, particularly during changing tidal conditions.
