Update: Active searches suspended for missing 20-year-old swimmer in Myrtle Beach

Active searches have been suspended for a missing ocean swimmer who reportedly disappeared Thursday evening in Myrtle Beach.

An initial search began when Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue crews along with police and lifeguard services responded to 25th Avenue South around 4:50 p.m. for a swimmer in distress call. They were unable to locate the distressed swimmer on arrival so they began a search, according to Myrtle Beach Fire Cpt. Jon Evans.

Rescue crews performed dives and line searches, he said. Multiple agencies assisted, including the U.S. Coast Guard.

A final surface search was conducted on Friday by the Myrtle Beach Fire Department, using jet skis, drones and helicopters to try and find the missing man.

Evans said that the rip currents and severe weather have made the search very difficult.

“The ocean is a very different body of water,” he said. “The currents, it changes as the tides change. Today was a little calmer but yesterday was obviously a little rougher. You can never tell.”

Anyone with information should call the Myrtle Beach Fire Department at 843-918-1382 or let lifeguard services or beach patrol know.

This story was originally published July 21, 2023 at 8:45 AM.