Report of missing N.J. swimmer unfounded

The Coast Guard says it considers a report of a missing swimmer off Point Pleasant Beach to be unfounded.

A rescue operation was launched Tuesday night after someone reported seeing a swimmer out too far from shore after lifeguards had gone home for the day.

Boats and a helicopter searched for 2 ½ hours, but found no one.

Coast Guard Petty Officer Cynthia Oldham says no one has been reported missing in the area.

The search was suspended around 10 p.m. and the case was listed as unfounded. If evidence develops that someone is missing, the case could be re-opened.

There have been five ocean drownings at the Jersey shore this summer. All occurred while there were no lifeguards on duty.