VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The search for two missing males in the water at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront was suspended Sunday afternoon due to rough conditions in the water, VBPD and the Coast Guard said.
Virginia Beach Police and the Coast Guard had transitioned the mission from a rescue to a recovery, according to Jody Saunders with VBPD's Public Affairs Office.
One man in his 20s washed ashore and was taken to the hospital in critical condition, but his condition as of Sunday evening is not known.
Watch: VB EMS details response to missing swimmers
Around 8:25 p.m., first responders got a call about three people who were in the ocean near 16th Street, who were "struggling to make it to shore.
Helicopters, fire department drones, and marine response were deployed as hundreds of onlookers gathered on the boardwalk.
Watch: One critical, two missing at VB Oceanfront
The Coast Guard detailed its efforts to rescue the swimmers in a press release Sunday evening.
Covering more than 100 square miles in a search that lasted 14 hours, USCG deployed a Jayhawk helicopter and three boats, in addition to other resources from the city.
Watch: Onlookers watch rescue crews at VB Oceanfront
“Our thoughts are with the families and friends during this difficult time,” said Capt. Peggy Britton, commander, Sector Virginia. “The Coast Guard is incredibly grateful for the dedication, expertise, and cooperation of all agencies involved in this search. The teamwork displayed by all involved in these challenging conditions demonstrates the unwavering commitment of working together.”
Virginia Beach Ocean Rescue had red flags flying on the beach Saturday morning and said they would be up throughout the weekend.
"Please stay out of the water," they wrote on social media. "Water is dangerous with severe rip currents."
Water temperatures in the ocean were around 70 degrees Saturday night, News 3 weather forecaster Derrah Getter said.
