Community Comes Together in Search Efforts for Missing Child at Noetzie Beach

NSRI Knysna STATION 12 duty crew were activated following reports of a drowning in progress at Noetzie Beach, near to Knysna

NSRI rescue swimmers, SA Police Services and ER24 ambulance services responded to the scene while the NSRI rescue craft JayTee IV and Katharine were launched.

On arrival on the scene a search commenced for a local male child, aged approximately 8, who was reported missing in the water.

It appears that the child had been swimming with friends when an adult on the beach suggested that they return to the beach.

It is reported that at that stage the child may have been caught in a rip current. An adult bystander had reportedly attempted to rescue the child, before the child then disappeared under water.

Local man, Duran de Villiers, volunteered his private helicopter that assisted in the search operation.

NSRI rescue swimmers were deployed into the surf to conduct free dive sweeping line search efforts.

Despite the extensive air, sea and shoreline search there remains no signs of the child.

SAPS Water Policing and Dive Services attended at the scene. Police divers are continuing in an ongoing search.

Thoughts are with the family and friends of the missing child in this difficult time.