Breaking News: Shipwreck off Coast Claims Lives, Son of U.S. Vice President Missing
In a shocking maritime tragedy unfolding off the coast of Cape May, New Jersey, rescue operations are currently underway following the crash of a commercial vessel that has claimed several lives. Among the missing is Zachary Harris, the son of the U.S. Vice President, whose family is anxiously awaiting updates from the search and rescue teams.
The incident occurred late last night when the cargo ship, *SS Horizon*, collided with an unidentified object in the waters approximately five miles from the coast. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion followed by chaos as the ship began taking on water rapidly. Coast Guard officials were alerted shortly after the impact, and rescue efforts began within minutes.
As of this morning, search operations have resulted in the recovery of several bodies, all believed to be crew members of the *SS Horizon*. The identities of the victims have not yet been disclosed, pending notification of next of kin. The ship was reportedly carrying a crew of twelve, with four confirmed deceased and three more injured, now receiving medical attention at Cape May Regional Medical Center. The conditions of the injured crew members have not been publicly shared.
The U.S. Coast Guard has assembled a multi-agency task force that includes local law enforcement, emergency responders, and dive teams to continue the search for survivors and bodies in the treacherous waters. According to Coast Guard spokesperson Lieutenant Commander Sarah Roberts, “Our teams are working around the clock, deploying aircraft, boats, and underwater drones in hopes of locating the missing crew members.”
The shocking twist in this tragedy is the news that Zachary Harris, aged 25, a recent college graduate, was reportedly aboard the ship, traveling for a work-related assignment at a shipping logistics company. “We are deeply concerned for Zachary and hope for his safe return,” stated Vice President Emily Harris in a tearful press conference earlier today.
The Vice President’s office has expressed their gratitude for the support and concern from the public and has requested privacy for the family during this difficult time. “We appreciate the swift response from the Coast Guard and the outpouring of love from our friends and the American public. Our hope is to bring Zachary back home safely,” she added.
As the search continues, the investigation into the cause of the collision is already underway. Preliminary reports suggest that a sudden squall may have obscured visibility, leading to the tragic crash. Forensic and marine investigators are on-site examining the wreckage of the ship, along with retrieving data from onboard navigation systems and communication logs.
Dr. Michael Garvey, a maritime safety expert, weighed in on the incident: “This is a troubling situation that underscores the importance of navigational safety and real-time weather monitoring for vessels. It’s critical to understand what went wrong here.”
In related news, local and national officials have expressed their condolences, with many taking to social media to share prayers and support for the families affected. Governor Christina Wells of New Jersey stated, “This event is deeply tragic, and my heart goes out to all the families involved. We are doing everything possible to support the rescue efforts and ensure a thorough investigation into this disaster.”
The search for the missing crew members, including Harris, is expected to continue throughout the day, with new developments anticipated as the investigation unfolds. As the nation watches and waits for news, the Vice President’s call for prayers for her son resonates deeply, reflecting the personal heartbreak within an unfolding national tragedy.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story progresses, with more as information becomes available.