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Search called off for missing swimmer in distress near Cape Hatteras

Posted at 6:25 PM, Oct 02, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-02 18:25:04-04

DARE COUNTY, N.C. –  The Coast Guard has suspended their search for a  55-year-old man who went missing off the coast of Cape Hatteras Sunday morning.

It happened just after 10:30 A.M in Salvo.

Officials tell News 3 the man was swimming, when the rough surf forced him underwater.

He was underwater for approximately 5-10 minutes before a Chicamacomico Banks Water Rescue lifeguard came to help.

The lifeguard was able to grab the swimmer’s hand, before a wave came in between the two.

The swimmer hasn’t been seen since, but the lifeguard is okay.

Due to the fear that the swimmer may have drowned, the Coast Guard suspended their search around sunset

USCG Elizabeth City and USCG Oregon Inlet were actively involved in the search.