A 22-year-old man was swept beyond the reef line while swimming at Tanguisson Beach on Tuesday evening, prompting a multi-agency search that continued into Wednesday off Guam’s west coast, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
The U.S. Coast Guard Joint Rescue Sub-Center Guam received notification at about 6:32 p.m. from Guam Fire Rescue that a swimmer had been carried seaward by strong rip currents. A family member attempted to reach the man but was unable to maintain contact due to powerful surf conditions and returned safely to shore. The swimmer was later lost from sight.
Search efforts include Guam Fire Rescue, U.S. Navy Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, the crew of the USCGC Frederick Hatch, a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew from Station Apra Harbor and other Coast Guard personnel. The Frederick Hatch was recalled and got underway by 11 p.m., conducting offshore searches in the drift area near Tanguisson Beach alongside aerial and small boat operations.
Lt. Cmdr. Derek Wallin, Coast Guard search and rescue mission coordinator, said crews are using every available resource and working closely with local and military partners. Guam Fire Rescue maintained an overnight presence and deployed drones equipped with thermal imaging technology. Officials said sea conditions remain challenging, with swells of 4 to 6 feet and winds of 25 knots. At the time of the incident, seas were reported at 5 to 8 feet with reduced visibility due to rain squalls.
The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Advisory, High Risk of Rip Currents and Small Craft Advisory for Guam and the Northern Marianas. Authorities urge the public to avoid entering the water and to heed all warnings while advisories remain in effect. Anyone with information about the missing swimmer is asked to contact the Joint Rescue Sub-Center Guam at (671) 355-4824 or via VHF Channel 16.