DELAWARE WATER GAP NATIONAL RECREATION AREA – A 54-year-old man from Blakeslee, Pennsylvania, died Wednesday afternoon after his kayak capsized on the Delaware River, according to officials with the National Park Service.
National Park Service rangers from Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area responded to the incident alongside rescue personnel from Bushkill Fire Company, Warren County EMS, and the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau. Emergency crews arrived on scene within 33 minutes of the initial call.
The man’s body was recovered approximately two miles downstream from Bushkill Access, where bystanders had pulled him to shore.
The National Park Service is reminding the public to take safety precautions when swimming, boating, wading, or kayaking in the Delaware River. Fast currents, hidden hazards, and unpredictable conditions can create dangerous situations even for experienced paddlers.
Visitors are encouraged to wear properly fitted life jackets, check river conditions before entering the water, and review safety guidelines provided by the park service.
More information about water safety can be found on the National Park Service website under “Water Hazards – Health & Safety.”
