DELAWARE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) – An Elizabeth man drowned near Bull’s Island Recreation Area on Tuesday afternoon, Hunterdon County Prosecutor Anthony P. Kearns III said.
Wilson A. Amariles, 40, of Elizabeth, was attempting to swim from Bull’s Island Recreation Area to the Pennsylvania side of the Delaware River when he became caught in the river’s current, Kearns said.
Amariles attempted to swim across the river but became tired and began to struggle. Unable to stay afloat, Amariles disappeared under the water, according to witnesses.
A 911 call was placed at 4:37 pm and the Delaware Township Police Department and the New Jersey State Park Police responded. Amariles’ body was recovered a short time later
by the Lambertville–New Hope Rescue Squad. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation into the death is ongoing, Kearns said.
Preliminary findings indicate that the incident appears to be accidental, Kearns said.
“This is a terrible tragedy and our thoughts are with the Amariles family. I urge everyone to be cautious when swimming in pools, lakes, and recreational areas. It is also extremely important to be aware of the dangers of the currents and riptides in our rivers and oceans,” Kearns said.
