Two bodies were found in the Rockaways days after two teenage boys went missing in the water at Jacob Riis Park.

"This has been a norm for us out in the Rockaways for too long," said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards.

What You Need To Know

  • According to the NYPD, the first body was found Saturday near Beach 114th Street and the second body was found Sunday at Beach 149th Street

  • The city has been dealing with a lifeguard shortage for years now

  • Lawmakers in Queens plan to hold a press conference  this week to push for new safety measures for swimmers

According to the NYPD, the first body was found Saturday near Beach 114th Street and the second body was found Sunday at Beach 149th Street, nearly two miles apart. 

Parents said they're on high alert this summer.

"I gotta make sure he stays within sight at all times because you don't want him wandering off by himself," said Edward Hernandez, whose son is nine years old. "Unfortunately, a lot of New York City don't know how to swim, but love the beach and as a parent, that's a huge concern."

Officials said 16-year-old Elyjah Chandler and 17-year-old Christian Noah went missing on June 21 around 6:30 p.m. No lifeguards were on duty at the time. 

The city has been dealing with a lifeguard shortage for years now, leaving some swimmers at risk.

"I noticed on the boardwalk, they have signs telling people to be careful, to respect the riptides, to be aware of where they're swimming, make sure lifeguards are on duty," said Brittany Caceres, who regularly visits Rockaway Beach with her three children.

According to the NYPD, rescue teams were deployed into the water when the teens went missing, but had to be taken out because of strong currents. 

The National Park Service said swimming conditions at Jacob Riis are extremely hazardous due to soil erosion. 

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said there are many things that city can do to make beaches safer for everyone.

"We wanna push the city to extend hours to 7 o'clock during the summer. People are out longer. We also wanna see a lot more coordination. Even when lifeguards leave, that shouldn't mean the beach is empty of law enforcement," said Richards.

Christian's mother confirmed on Facebook that her son's body had been found over the weekend. 

She wrote, in part, "Thanks to the host of friends who continue to stand by our side, day in and day out. We are truly grateful... Please continue to pray for the Noah & Chandler Family."