Turkish Swimmer, 21, Dies After North Wildwood Rescue

A young man visiting Cape May County from Turkey lost his life this week after getting into trouble in the ocean off North Wildwood, and the community is mourning a visitor who came thousands of miles to spend time at our shore.

The swimmer was 21-year-old Ahmet Yimenici of Turkey, according to authorities. Emergency crews were called to the beach near 2nd Avenue at about 2:09 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, after reports came in of someone struggling in the water.

Before emergency personnel could reach him, a group of surfers already in the water paddled over and pulled the unconscious man back to the sand. Once on shore, crews from the North Wildwood Fire Department and the North Wildwood Beach Patrol began CPR and other lifesaving efforts right away.

He was taken to Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional, where he was pronounced dead. Investigators said the incident does not appear to involve foul play.

"Our hearts go out to Mr. Yimenici's family during this incredibly difficult time. I also want to recognize the quick actions of the surfers and civilians on scene," North Wildwood Police Chief Katherine Madden said in a statement. "Their willingness to act without hesitation gave this young man the best possible chance, and we're grateful for their courage."

City officials used the tragedy to remind everyone who visits our beaches to swim only where lifeguards are present and on duty. As summer winds down and the crowds thin out, that message matters more than ever — the ocean doesn't check the calendar, and even strong swimmers can find themselves in trouble fast.

For those of us who live here year-round, the story is a painful reminder of how quickly a day at the beach can turn. It's also a testament to the kind of people who make up our shore communities: strangers who didn't think twice before diving in to help someone they'd never met.