RODANTHE – Earlier today, October 1, a 63 year old male from Baldwinsville, New York died while swimming in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Hatteras National Seashore near Rodanthe, according to National Parks information.

A 911 call for two swimmers in distress was received at 10:07 a.m. The incident occurred just off Blue Sea Road in the Mirlo Beach subdivision.

The victim’s friend initiated CPR efforts, followed by Chicamacomico Banks Water Rescue and Dare County Emergency Medical Services.

CPR efforts were unsuccessful. He was the only fatality during this incident. The victim was not using a flotation device.

The cause of death is unknown at this time. Witnesses were with the victim in the water, reports Jeremy Carpenter who leads the Chicamacomico Water Rescue Team. Those witnesses reported that the victim was standing and in distress before he was caught by a current.

Deputies from the Dare County Sheriff’s Office and National Park Service Rangers also responded to the incident.

“Cape Hatteras National Seashore extends our condolences to his family and friends during this very difficult time,” said National Parks of Eastern North Carolina Superintendent David Hallac.

A reduced staff of the Chicamacomico Water Rescue Team continues to patrol the beach this week.