WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) -- Emergency crews called off a search for a man who they say jumped into the Cape Fear River Thursday night.
The Wilmington Fire Department, Police Department and New Hanover County Fire and Rescue all responded and searched for the man until around midnight with the help of a SABLE helicopter.
According to Battalion Chief Tim Smith, witnesses said they saw a white man jump into the river and start to float up the river toward the Coast Guard Cutter Diligence before losing sight of him.
Smith said the current was strong, moving at about 9 to 12 knots, making the Cape Fear potentially deadly.
"If you don't have to get into this river, do not jump in," Smith said. "It's nothing to play with. This current will take you down the river or up the river, and it's not a good outcome."
Emergency dispatchers said the search will continue Friday morning.
