Teenager killed, sister rescued in sand collapse on Jersey Shore

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — A teenager digging a hole with his sister at the beach in New Jersey died after the sand collapsed on top of them.

>> Read more trending news

The Toms River Police Department said in a Facebook post that it was first called to the beach on Tuesday afternoon for a report of two teenagers who were trapped in the sand. Officers said the two had been digging a hole when the sand collapsed around them.

On Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at approximately 4:09 PM, multiple police and EMS units were dispatched to the beach entrance...

Posted by Toms River Police Department on Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Police told WPVI that 18-year-old Levi Caverly and his sister, 17, were digging a 10-foot hole using frisbees when it collapsed.

The siblings, who are from Maine, were visiting with their family and had spent the day at the beach, police said.

Emergency crews used buckets, ladders, bulldozers and other machinery to free the teens, WPVI reported.

“From my view, I could see a lot of people helping and trying to get that body out as fast as possible,” Scott Ricchi, who witnessed the rescue, told WCAU.

>> Teen dead after being buried under sand dune at a Utah state park

Officials say a general rule when in sand is to never dig a hole deeper than your knees, WPVI reported.

According to WCAU, there were no lifeguards on the beach Tuesday, because they do not begin patrolling beaches until Memorial Day weekend.

On Air107.3 The Eagle - Tampa Bay's Classic Hits Station Logo

See a new furry friend up for adoption each week, brought to you by Fence Outlet!


Win tickets to concerts, unique experiences, great prizes and more!


Get weather news that matters, including forecast and radar from 10 News!


Check out the newest blog, written by all of your favorite Eagle personalities!


Be the first caller to answer Fisher's "College of Rock Knowledge" weekday mornings at 7:50 and WIN! 877-595-1073


Swimming is a great recreational sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, especially here in Florida. But it’s important to know how to be safe while you’re in the water.


mobile apps

Everything you love about 1073theeagle.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!