Three missing from hazardous beach in Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata, DR.- Authorities in Puerto Plata have reported the disappearance of three individuals from a beach that had been closed due to its hazardous conditions and pollution.

Whascar García, the director of Civil Defense in the province, expressed deep sorrow over the disappearance of one of his volunteers. He disclosed that a minor, who had been prohibited from swimming at one of the beaches marked with a red flag, ventured to Alfonso beach in the El Bronx sector, an area that had been deserted.

The first individuals reported missing were 17-year-old Anderson González Tejada, hailing from Santiago, and José Alberto Caminero, 29, who had attempted to rescue the minor. Tragically, during this rescue attempt, Brandy Díaz Díaz, a member of the Puerto Plata Civil Defense, also vanished in the waters. Meanwhile, Johan Beard, president of the Clean Ocean Foundation and a professional diver, underscored the perilous nature of the Alfonso trench area, where even seasoned professionals hesitate to enter, complicating search efforts. Following the report of Anderson González Tejada’s disappearance on Sunday morning, rescue agencies mobilized dozens of personnel, utilizing divers, an Air Force helicopter, and all available resources in the search for the missing individuals.

The closure of the beach in Puerto Plata had been announced on Holy Saturday, with the Civil Defense issuing a red flag warning due to adverse weather conditions reported by the National Meteorological Office (Onamet) and rough sea conditions. Additionally, all river recreational areas had been shut down due to mild to moderate flooding caused by recent rainfall. The public was urged to heed these preventive measures to ensure everyone’s safety.

Furthermore, a yellow flag advisory was instituted along the perimeter from Playa Cambiazo in Luperón to Playa la Ensenada in Villa Isabela. “Swimming is permitted in these designated areas, provided that safety protocols are observed, and specialized personnel are present for supervision,” stated the information bulletin.

Source: CDN