Police: Man Missing After Swimming Near Croton Point Park

CROTON-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) - Authorities in Westchester County are searching for a man who disappeared after going for a swim this morning in Croton-on-Hudson.

Alex DeSouza, 47, of Brooklyn, was fishing with two friends at around 10:45 a.m. at Tellers Point in Croton Point Park when he decided to go for a swim, police said.

His friends continued fishing and looked back and noticed he wasn't there any longer, police said. That's when they called the police.

CBS2's Ali Bauman reported DeSouza was feared dead, as rescuers did not find him after searching the Hudson River.

"This gentleman swam out about 150 yards before he went under and was not seen again," Westchester County police Public Information Officer Kieran O'Leary said.

O'Leary said DeSouza's friends saw him walking out into the water before he disappeared, 1010 WINS' Al Jones reported.

"I'm told that there are sandbars present, so there may have been a sudden dropoff that got him by surprise.

Swimming is not allowed in that area of the park. Police say currents in the area are very strong and it is rocky. The water in that area is four and 10 feet deep.

"The more time that passes, the less likely for a good outcome," O'Leary said.

County marine units, diving teams, helicopters and fire stations from across Westchester searched from since 10:45 a.m. until after 4 p.m. The search will resume on Wednesday morning.

"I didn't even think they had that many official brigades out here," Brian Steffey said.

Authorities said the men had planned to check into a cabin Tuesday morning to spend the night, but arrived too early and were killing the time fishing.

"What was supposed to be a fun night and day of camaraderie and fishing ended up with a real unfortunate morning and tragedy," Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino said.

Police said they do not believe alcohol was involved. The other two men were taken to the police station for their statements.