Rogers' Tragic Drowning Sparks Urgent Calls for Jetties Safety at Jacob Riis Park
- Sebastián Lasaosa Rogers, a filmmaker, tragically drowned at Jacob Riis Park due to hazardous, dilapidated jetties.
- Witnesses reported Rogers' surfboard became entangled in the submerged jetties, highlighting their significant dangers for beachgoers.
- His death has intensified community calls for urgent action to address safety concerns at Jacob Riis Park.
Tragedy Sparks Urgent Calls for Action on Hazardous Jetties at Jacob Riis Park
On April 12, the community of Crown Heights, Brooklyn, mourns the loss of Sebastián Lasaosa Rogers, a 35-year-old award-winning filmmaker, who tragically drowns while surfing at Jacob Riis Park in Queens. This incident highlights a pressing safety issue: the dilapidated wooden jetties, over 70 years old, that pose a significant hazard to beachgoers. Witnesses report that Rogers' surfboard became entangled in these submerged structures, which have long been a source of concern for local residents due to their dangerous condition, particularly during high tide. The jetties become increasingly invisible, creating a perilous environment for surfers and swimmers alike.
Local residents and Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola voice their frustration over the inaction of the National Park Service and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding the removal of these hazardous jetties. Despite ongoing requests for action to improve safety measures in the area, the response has been marked by delays and the need for additional studies. Ariola emphasizes that the community should not have to wait for a disaster to prompt necessary changes, underlining the urgency of the situation. The incident involving Rogers serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by these structures, especially following three recent drownings in the area where lifeguards were absent.
The erosion of the beach at Bay 1, a popular spot for queer sunbathers, further exacerbates the risks associated with the jetties. Local residents argue that these structures contribute to the dangerous conditions, increasing the likelihood of tragic incidents like Rogers' drowning. As calls for immediate federal intervention intensify, the community rallies for an expedited response to ensure the safety of beachgoers at this federally-owned park. Rogers' untimely death amplifies the urgency of addressing these longstanding safety concerns, as residents seek to prevent further tragedies in the future.
In the wake of this tragic event, the community's frustration with federal agencies grows, as residents demand accountability and swift action. The jetties have long been a topic of concern, and advocates now hope that Rogers' death will catalyze the necessary changes to make Jacob Riis Park a safer destination for all. The collective outcry underscores the critical need for proactive measures in securing public safety at beaches and parks across the nation.
The tragic incident also reinforces the importance of community advocacy in addressing safety issues at public recreational spaces. Local leaders and residents alike recognize that the time for action has come, urging federal agencies to prioritize safety improvements to prevent further loss of life at Jacob Riis Park.