Fundraiser Aims To Bring Beach Haven Drowning Victim Home

BEACH HAVEN, NJ — After a swimmer got caught in a rip current and tragically drowned in Beach Haven over the holiday weekend, a fundraiser has been launched with the goal of bringing him home to the Dominican Republic.

Edwin Antonio Made Sanchez was one of three swimmers who got caught in a rip current off 5th Street in Beach Haven shortly before 3 p.m. Sunday, the Beach Haven Beach Patrol said in a statement provided by Beach Haven Police Sgt. Lisa Fay.

A GoFundMe was created to bring him home for burial in the Dominican Republic, with all extra funds going to his parents. The goal of $8,000 was exceeded as of Tuesday morning and donations reached nearly $24,000. Read more: Drowning Victim In Beach Haven Identified

"Edwin was an avid reader and a young man full of dreams," the fundraiser reads. "He aspired to achieve so much in life, from providing for his loved ones to creating opportunities for his family to join him in the USA. Despite his young age, he carried a remarkable sense of responsibility and determination."

Sanchez came to work and build a better future, according to the fundraiser. His dream was to build a house in the Dominican Republic for his mother.

"One of his dreams will come true even though our heart aches with pain and loss," the fundraiser says.

"Every dollar counts, and your support will not only provide comfort to his grieving family but also help fulfill the dreams Edwin held so dearly," the fundraiser continues. "Let's come together as a community and make a difference during this difficult time."