New Swimmer Captured Crossing the Hudson River Under NYPD Supervision
July 29, 2025: In a rare and daring feat, a swimmer was recently captured by cameras crossing the Hudson River under close supervision and protection from the New York Police Department (NYPD) and other monitoring agencies. The event, which drew attention from onlookers and passersby, took place along a section of the river known for its strong currents, active shipping lanes, and generally restricted swimming activity.
The unidentified swimmer was observed entering the water wearing standard gear, accompanied by several support boats and monitored closely by law enforcement. Drone footage and shore-based observers tracked the swimmer’s progress across the river, ensuring both their safety and the security of the surrounding area.
The crossing, which took place during daylight hours, appeared to be part of a pre-planned and authorized activity. NYPD marine units were seen escorting the swimmer, maintaining a safe perimeter while coordinating with additional safety and rescue personnel on standby.
"This was not an unsanctioned act," said an NYPD spokesperson. "We were fully aware of the swim and had proper measures in place to ensure safety, coordination with harbor traffic, and public awareness."
The Hudson River, which separates New York and New Jersey, is notoriously challenging for swimmers due to its tides, water temperature, and boat traffic. Unauthorized swimming is generally discouraged, and anyone attempting such a feat without permission risks serious legal and physical consequences.
Authorities did not release the name or the motivation of the swimmer, but sources suggest that the crossing may have been part of a personal endurance challenge, charity event, or awareness campaign. Officials noted that the swimmer trained extensively and complied with all safety regulations required for such an attempt.
Residents and tourists along the waterfront paused to watch the unusual scene unfold, with many expressing admiration for the swimmer’s determination and courage.
“It’s not something you see every day,” said a local jogger who witnessed part of the crossing. “It looked intense, but very organized. You could tell there were a lot of safety protocols in place.”
While rare, sanctioned Hudson River crossings have occurred in the past, often tied to athletic events or special causes. Officials reiterated that any such swim requires advance coordination with city and state authorities, including maritime safety units.
Captured by: Inaam Tahhan
A Rare Sight: Empire State Navy Ship Glides Under 59th Street Bridge, Salutes Roosevelt Island
A Rare Sight: Empire State Navy Ship Glides Under 59th Street Bridge, Salutes Roosevelt Island
In a moment that felt more like a cinematic scene than a routine naval maneuver, the Empire State, a U.S. Navy training vessel, made a majestic passage through the Hudson River this week, cruising beneath the iconic 59th Street Bridge and offering a symbolic salute to the residents of Roosevelt Island as it continued toward the Atlantic Ocean.
It was an unusual but unforgettable sight—one that drew curious onlookers to the edges of Roosevelt Island’s eastern promenade and the Manhattan shoreline. The ship, gleaming in the late afternoon sun, moved with precision and grace, framed by the towering bridge above and the Manhattan skyline to the west. Its crew stood in formal uniform along the deck, some waving to civilians gathered along the waterfront.
The scene captured the imagination of many. Children pointed excitedly from park benches, tourists snapped photos from the Roosevelt Island Tramway, and longtime residents paused their daily routines to witness the unique event. The ship’s horns let out a low, resonant blast that echoed off the buildings, drawing even more eyes to the river below.
While it’s not uncommon for naval or Coast Guard vessels to travel New York’s waterways, the Empire State’s journey under the 59th Street Bridge—also known as the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge—was particularly symbolic. As a training ship affiliated with the U.S. Maritime Service, it carries not just sailors, but a legacy of maritime education and service. Its rare appearance through this part of the city served as a powerful visual reminder of the connection between New York and its nautical history.
A spokesperson for the Navy later confirmed that the passage was part of a scheduled training deployment, with cadets aboard gaining real-world navigation experience in complex urban waterways. “It’s always an honor to pass through New York City,” the spokesperson said. “The reaction from the public was incredible.”
As the ship faded into the horizon, heading east toward the Atlantic, Roosevelt Island residents lingered at the water’s edge. For a brief moment, amidst the hum of city life, they were part of a living tableau—one that blended New York’s maritime past with its vibrant present.