Search resumes for missing swimmer at Neuse River Wednesday morning

Water rescue crews suspended their search efforts Tuesday night for a man at Raleigh Beach along the Neuse River in East Raleigh due to weather conditions.

According to the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, crews will resume their search efforts Wednesday morning.

Before 11:45 a.m., crews responded to Loch Raven Parkway and Old Milburne Road at the Neuse River, close to Knightdale. According to deputies, a man went underwater and never resurfaced.

Rescue crews from the Wake County Sheriff’s Office and Knightdale Rescue were being assisted by the Raleigh Fire Department.

Sky 5 flew over the scene at noon. At least four boats were being used to search the water.

A tent was set up on a bridge over the water.

So far in 2024, the Wake County Sheriff’s Office said crews have responded to four drowning calls in this area of Raleigh Beach.

A swimmer drowned Sunday at Raleigh Beach at the Neuse River Greenway Trail, off Loch Raven Parkway in east Raleigh. After a two-hour search, 32-year-old Jose Manuel Ramirez was pulled from the water.

According to the city of Raleigh, a gate will be installed at the entrance to Raleigh Beach and the Neuse River. This gate will restrict access to city staff and emergency services only.

And some residents couldn’t be happier.

“I feel happy because there’s not going to be no more people drowning,” Sergio Gentili, resident said.

He’s witnessed this scene four times this year, with first responders on the ground and in their boats after a reported drowning.

“And you’re like, oh, no, another person has just die,” Gentili said.

The city released a statement on Tuesday.

“First, it’s important to recognize that the Neuse River is moving water, in some areas fast-moving,” a city spokesperson wrote. “There are steep drops into areas where current has made the river deep.

“It can be challenging to be in the river, regardless of swimming abilities. Additionally, we have seen heavy rains recently, which can increase the flows, making all our creeks and the Neuse River even more dangerous.”

The city said it has posted multiple signs in English and Spanish to advise people about safety measures they should take around and in the water.

“We are evaluating if and how things can be improved,” the city spokesperson wrote.

First responders stressed that swimming in Raleigh Beach is just too dangerous.