Body of missing Pitman HS senior found in Alcyon Lake: officials
PITMAN, N.J. (CBS) -- The body of a missing teen was recovered from Alcyon Lake in Gloucester County, officials said Monday.
Officials identified the 18-year-old as Victor Rodriguez, a senior at Pitman High School.
"It is with great sadness that after just over 17 hours of tedious and demanding work by many first responders, Victor has been recovered," Pitman Mayor Michael Razze said in a statment. "The mutual love and support of our community will help to carry us through this difficult time. On behalf of the entire borough, our deepest condolences to his family, friends, fellow students, and the PHS Class of 2023."
The search for Rodriguez started on Sunday night. Investigators believe it was a "tragic" incident. First responders were called to the lake shortly before 8:45 p.m. Sunday, Pitman Police Chief Dan McAteer said.
According to McAteer, the teen lost control while trying to swim across the lake and became submerged. There were two other people at the lake and both tried to help but became overwhelmed and came back to shore.
There was only one swimmer, McAteer said.
"My understanding is that it can be as much as 10 feet," McAteer said of how deep the lake is.
The search was handled by the New Jersey State Police, Gloucester County Emergency Management and other local police and fire departments in South Jersey.
According to a junior Pitman High School student, the teen was participating in what they call the "senior scavenger," which the student said has gone on for more than 15 years.
The student said one of the challenges is to swim across Alcyon Lake for points.
"Because it's known for being nasty," the student said, "so people are like, 'swim across this nasty lake,' and you get a lot of points for it."
No students were required to report to Pitman High School on Monday. The building remained open with emotional support services available to students throughout the day.
All exams scheduled for Monday and Tuesday were canceled and will not be rescheduled. Like Monday, the building will be open to students for emotional support Tuesday. Teachers and staff will also be available throughout the day.
All classes will resume as scheduled Wednesday on a half day schedule. Homeroom will begin at 8 a.m. and the school day will end at 12:46 p.m., the school district said. Breakfast and lunch will be available for purchase.
Graduation practice for seniors will take place Wednesday morning and the ceremony will take place at 7 p.m.
An online fundraiser has been posted to support Rodriguez's family.
