A 19-year-old man from Guadalajara drowned Saturday after being caught in a strong rip current while swimming at Playa Camarones. His body was recovered the following morning, August 3, after a renewed search by local rescue teams.
The young man had entered the water with his eight-year-old nephew on Saturday afternoon when both were pulled out by the current. A foreign tourist nearby was able to rescue the child, but the teen was lost beneath the waves. Despite immediate search efforts, he was not found that day.
Search and rescue operations resumed early Sunday morning, led by Puerto Vallarta’s Lifeguard Corps, with support from specialized divers and the Aquatic Rescue team. His body was located around 10 a.m. during the second sweep of the area. Authorities conducted the recovery discreetly to avoid alarming beach visitors. The body was later transferred to the Forensic Medical Service for a legal autopsy before being released to the family.
Staying Safe in Rip Currents
Rip currents are among the leading causes of ocean drownings worldwide, and they can overpower even strong swimmers. Experts advise the following:
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Don’t try to swim against the current. Instead, swim parallel to the shore to escape it.
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Once free of the current, swim at an angle back to land.
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Stay calm, signal for help, and conserve energy if you can’t make it back immediately.
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Always swim near a lifeguard and check water conditions before entering.
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Watch for signs of rips, such as narrow gaps in the surf, choppy water, or debris moving out to sea.
Local and state Civil Protection officials have again urged residents and visitors to be vigilant, especially in known rip current zones. Authorities stress the importance of swimming only in lifeguard-monitored areas, avoiding alcohol before entering the water, and maintaining close supervision of children at all times. These precautions reflect global best practices for beach safety and help reduce the risk of drownings and dangerous secondary rescue attempts.