Body of 14-year-old missing from NJ beach found

The body of a 14-year-old boy from Philadelphia, who disappeared in the ocean off Wildwood, New Jersey, on June 1, has been recovered and identified by police. The discovery followed a multi-agency search operation.

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Our sincere condolences are with the juvenile victim’s friends and family during this very difficult time. We also want to thank all the first responders who assisted with not only the initial rescue operations, but that of the recovery efforts.

The City of Wildwood Police Department announced the recovery Wednesday night, stating that remains found near the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May were identified as the missing juvenile. Forensic analysis confirmed the identity, and the next-of-kin notification was completed. Police extended their condolences to the victim's family and thanked the numerous first responders involved in both the initial rescue and subsequent recovery efforts.

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There were no lifeguards present at all, and they still allowed these children with special needs to get into the water with no adults.

The missing student attended a Northeast Philadelphia school for students with special needs. His grandmother, Kenya Pippen, expressed outrage, alleging that staff allowed students into the water without lifeguards present. She described the situation as a "disgrace" and stated her grandson, who was supposed to graduate on Wednesday, did not deserve to go missing under such circumstances. The student's mother also spoke out about his disappearance earlier this week.

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My grandson has been missing. It’s cold here. He’s been gone for hours. He doesn’t deserve this. He’s just a kid. He was supposed to graduate on Wednesday.