Ocean City, Maryland (December 8, 2024): On the evening of December 7, 2024, at approximately 8:09 p.m., members of the Ocean City Police and Fire Departments responded to Northside Park following a citizen report of personal belongings floating in the lagoon. The Department of Public Works assisted in retrieving the items from the water. It is unclear how long the items had been in the lagoon.
Out of an abundance of caution, Ocean City Police conducted a perimeter search. Simultaneously, Ocean City Fire/EMS, supported by allied fire agencies, conducted an extensive water search using advanced sonar technology and highly trained rescue divers. The search confirmed that no person was in the water.
During the incident, a limited section of Winterfest was gradually closed during its final 30 minutes of operation, causing minimal disruption. No reports of missing persons have been filed.
Ocean City authorities thank the community for their cooperation and remain committed to ensuring public safety.
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