Body Of Missing NC Swimmer Washes Up On Emerald Isle Beach

EMERALD ISLE, NC — The body of a Wake Forest man who went missing Friday after getting caught in a rip current while swimming along a North Carolina beach has been found. Ian Frazier Lewis’ body was located along the beach early Monday morning, according to reports.

Lewis, 18, was swimming with a group of friends April 19 when he and Mary Paige Merical, 17, of Raleigh were swept out by currents, WSOC reported. Merical was rescued and was transported to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, where she remains in serious condition.

Merical was underwater for about 14 minutes, WRAL reported,

Authorities, however, had not been able to locate Lewis. His body was found around 3:30 a.m. April 22 on the beach, blocks from where he was swept out Friday, WRAL reported.

“The Town of Emerald Isle would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Lewis, as well as our continued support and prayers to the family and friends of Ms. Merical,” Emerald Isle officials said in a statement Monday.

Here's how to stay safe if you are caught in one, according to the national Rip Current Task Force:

• By swimming parallel to shore, you are likely to get out of the rip current, which tends to be a narrow channel; then swim at an angle in to shore.
• Check water conditions before going in by looking at the local beach forecast before you leave for the beach and talking to the lifeguard at the beach.
• Only swim at a beach with lifeguards. The chances of drowning at a beach with lifeguards are 1 in 18 million (U.S. Lifesaving Association).
• Don't assume! Great weather for the beach does not always mean it's safe to swim or even play in the shallows. Rip currents often form on calm, sunny days.
• Learn how to spot a rip current. The Break the Grip of the Rip free online training will help you learn how to spot a rip current.
• If you feel tired or don't think you will be able to make it out of the rip current, don't panic. Stay calm and tread water, waving your arms and yelling for help while facing shore.