Voorhees Township police responded late Friday night to a 9‑1‑1 call reporting a man in distress at Brookdale Echelon Lake, the small body of water located behind the Camden County Library branch on Laurel Road. Witnesses said they heard the individual shouting “help” before he entered the water.
When officers arrived, they observed the man standing in the lake. As they moved to assist, he slipped beneath the surface and vanished. Surveillance footage from a nearby camera later confirmed the man ran alone toward the lake before stepping in.
Immediately, a multi‑agency response was activated. Fire personnel, the township’s Emergency Management Office, dive teams, and search‑and‑rescue volunteers converged on the scene. Divers began systematic sweeps of the lake while surface crews maintained a perimeter to keep the public clear of the area.
“Our top priority is locating the missing individual and ensuring the safety of the community,” said a spokesperson for the Voorhees Police Department. “We ask residents to avoid the lake and surrounding property while the search continues, as the operation requires a clear and secure environment for our responders.”
The search effort is ongoing. Officials have not released a description of the missing person, citing the investigation’s sensitivity, but they have confirmed that no threat to the public exists at this time.
Local residents expressed concern and offered assistance, with several community members volunteering to help coordinate information for investigators. The township’s Emergency Management Office set up a phone line for tips and updates, encouraging anyone with additional details to come forward.
Brookdale Echelon Lake is a popular spot for families and joggers, and the incident has prompted a reminder about water safety. While the lake is relatively shallow, sudden slips or unexpected currents can pose serious risks, especially after dark.
What to Expect Next
Police and rescue teams will continue to conduct underwater sweeps throughout the night and into the early morning hours. If the missing individual is not located promptly, the search may expand to include additional resources such as state‑level dive units.
Authorities will release further information as it becomes available. In the meantime, the township urges anyone who witnessed the incident or who has relevant video footage to contact the Voorhees Police Department at the number provided in the original 9‑1‑1 call.
Community members are reminded that the lake area will remain closed to the public until officials deem it safe to reopen. Updates will be posted on the township’s official website and social media channels.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
