Overview
- Town officials closed the water on Saturday after a beachgoer found five needles, triggering a sweep of the south end of Manasquan Beach near the inlet.
- Cleanup crews recovered an estimated 60 syringes mixed with household garbage during the search of the shoreline.
- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and Monmouth County health inspectors reviewed the site through two high-tide cycles and cleared the water for swimmers by Sunday morning.
- Some residents who helped with the cleanup reported finding additional syringe parts and small drug-related items after reopening and said officials should have waited longer.
- NJDEP linked the debris to recent heavy rain and sewer overflows that can carry household waste, including insulin syringes, onto beaches and officials urged the public to report hazards while lifeguards continue monitoring the area.