Park officials at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area have announced a fifth drowning death this season. A 25 year old man from Newark lost his life Saturday afternoon in the river near Coppermine parking area. Park Rangers patrolling the river arrived in minutes. The first calls from cell phone came into Monroe County rescue teams around 3:30. The young man's body was recovered at 3:55. According to park officials, the most drownings in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area happened back in 1999. When there were 6 drownings. No one has ever drowned in the river when they were wearing a properly fitted life jacket. Park officials have been urging all those who swim, fish or boat in the river to wear a coast guard approved life jacket.
Source: New Jersey Herald