Marine Services Bureau
Search and Rescue Stories
January 16, 2024
Rescue – Ocean Station
Trooper I Michael Montgomery & Trooper Matthew Devecka
Tpr. Matthew Devecka
On January 16th Trooper Michael Montgomery #7415 and Trooper Matthew Devecka #7987 responded to a call for a windsurfer in distress in the Barnegat Bay, Ocean Township, Ocean County. They located the victim, pulled him and his equipment on the NJSP Vessel and undoubtedly saved his life as he struggled in the cold water. The victim stated the wind gust was too strong for him to hold his wind surfing sail up. He was in distress in the water for approximately one hour, before the Troopers were notified and located him. He was transported to shore and was evaluated by Ocean Township EMS for hypothermia. He was wearing a wetsuit but no personal flotation device. Trooper Mongomery and Trooper Devecka’s quick response and lifesaving efforts were crucial to the rescue of the victim and saving him from suffering from hypothermia and possible drowning. Trooper Mongomery and Trooper Devecka are an asset to the Marine Services Bureau and the Boating community alike.
