Authorities Question Validity of Cape May Distress Report in Rough Waters

Issue #450

September 09, 2025

In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

‍🏊 Authorities Question Validity of Cape May Distress Report in Rough Waters

 🗽Cape May to Hold 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Cove Beach

🏠 Cape May Cracks Down on Short-Term Rentals Without Permits

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Cape May Arts and Science Center’s DaVinci Gala

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 September 9

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Authorities Question Validity of Cape May Distress Report in Rough Waters

A large-scale ocean rescue effort launched after reports of a possible swimmer in distress off Cape May has been called off, with authorities concluding that no one is actually missing. The search began Thursday morning, September 4, when witnesses said they saw a woman, believed to be between 30 and 40 years old, enter the ocean near Madison and Beach avenues and not return. At the time, dangerous surf conditions prompted officials to issue a double red flag warning, prohibiting any swimming due to high rip current risks. However, after two days of searching and no formal missing person report filed with any law enforcement agency, authorities determined there was no concrete evidence that someone was lost in the surf. Officials emphasized that while the initial report was treated with utmost seriousness, the investigation revealed no indication of a verified emergency. As a precaution, law enforcement will continue to monitor the area following guidance from the Coast Guard and State Police. With most beaches unguarded on weekdays after Labor Day, officials urge the public to only enter the ocean when lifeguards are present and to respect posted warnings and flags. Anyone with additional information or safety concerns is encouraged to contact Cape May Police Department Detective David Atkinson at (609) 884-9500.

Cape May to Hold 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Cove Beach

 Cape May will mark the anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks with a solemn ceremony at Cove Beach, honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost and paying tribute to the heroic first responders who risked their lives in 2001. Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Cape May in partnership with the City of Cape May, the event is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, September 11. Community members are invited to gather in remembrance of those who perished at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93. The ceremony will include reflections from local leaders and members of various organizations. A special emphasis will be placed on honoring the courage and sacrifice of police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians who responded during the national tragedy.

 Cape May Cracks Down on Short-Term Rentals Without Permits

Cape May will soon begin issuing fines to short-term rental property owners who have failed to obtain required mercantile licenses. About 900 properties are reportedly in violation, despite previous warnings and an amnesty period offered earlier this year. Fines start at $1,000. Cape May leaders have emphasized that the enforcement effort is not a revenue-generating initiative. Instead, the goal is to ensure public safety, as licensed rental properties are subject to routine inspections for fire safety and code compliance. City officials are expected to begin issuing fines in the coming weeks, and property owners still operating without a license are being urged to take immediate action.

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Answer to the September 8th Trivia Question

Which of the following is Cape May, New Jersey, best known for?

A) Being the location of the largest casino in the U.S.
B) Hosting the only basic training center for the U.S. Coast Guard
C) Serving as the oldest military fort in New Jersey
D) Being home to the longest boardwalk on the East Coast

Answer: B) Hosting the only basic training center for the U.S. Coast Guard

Cape May is home to the United States Coast Guard's only enlisted basic training facility, making it a vital location for the service members of the Coast Guard​

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