Memorial Day Mayhem: Stabbing and State of Emergency in Ocean City and Cape May, New Jersey

On Memorial Day weekend, Ocean City and Cape May, New Jersey witnessed a surge in incidents, including a stabbing and a state of emergency declaration. The violence highlights concerns about large crowds, disorderly conduct, and a lifeguard shortage.

On a bustling Memorial Day weekend, the popular beach towns of Ocean City and Cape May, New Jersey, faced a surge in incidents, prompting heightened police presence and a declaration of a state of emergency.

In Ocean City, authorities responded to a stabbing incident on the boardwalk on Saturday evening. A 15-year-old male was reportedly stabbed by an unknown male suspect and transported to an area hospital, where he is expected to recover from his injuries.

The incident follows a pattern of unruly behavior by large crowds of teens on the Ocean City boardwalk. Mayor Jay Gillian expressed his concern, emphasizing that the town "will not tolerate" the disruption caused by these actions.

Ocean City police made multiple arrests during the incident, restoring order to the boardwalk after removing the teens involved. Mayor Gillian assured residents that a highly qualified team of officers would enforce all laws and maintain a safe environment.

"We have a highly qualified team of officers on the boardwalk and throughout town, and they will enforce all laws to the fullest," he said.

Further south in Cape May County, the Wildwood Police Department declared a state of emergency just after midnight Monday due to "numerous incidents of civil unrest." The declaration was later rescinded, but no arrests were reported.

The violence in Ocean City and Cape May underscores a growing concern about lifeguard shortages affecting municipalities nationwide. The lack of lifeguards has forced some areas to close or reduce operating hours for beaches and swimming pools, leaving many seeking outdoor aquatic activities at risk.

In New York City, beaches will open for Memorial Day weekend, but only 230 of the 600 lifeguards needed for full staffing and patrol have been hired. Mayor Eric Adams acknowledged the "national lifeguard problem" and the challenges in resolving it within the city.

The Memorial Day weekend incidents in Ocean City and Cape May, New Jersey, underscore the need for increased vigilance and safety measures at popular beach destinations. The surge in violence and the lifeguard shortage highlight the importance of addressing these issues to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer season for all.