Search suspended for missing swimmers at VB Oceanfront

The search for two missing males in the water at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront was suspended Sunday afternoon due to rough conditions in the water, VBPD and the Coast Guard said.

Virginia Beach Police and the Coast Guard had transitioned the mission from a rescue to a recovery, according to Jody Saunders with VBPD's Public Affairs Office.

One man in his 20s washed ashore and was taken to the hospital in critical condition, but his condition as of Sunday evening is not known.

Watch: VB EMS details response to missing swimmers

Virginia Beach EMS PIO details response to missing swimmers

Around 8:25 p.m., first responders got a call about three people who were in the ocean near 16th Street, who were "struggling to make it to shore.

Helicopters, fire department drones, and marine response were deployed as hundreds of onlookers gathered on the boardwalk.

Watch: One critical, two missing at VB Oceanfront

One critical, two missing at Virginia Beach Oceanfront

The Coast Guard detailed its efforts to rescue the swimmers in a press release Sunday evening.

Covering more than 100 square miles in a search that lasted 14 hours, USCG deployed a Jayhawk helicopter and three boats, in addition to other resources from the city.

Watch: Onlookers watch rescue crews at VB Oceanfront

Raw footage from Oceanfront suspected drownings

“Our thoughts are with the families and friends during this difficult time,” said Capt. Peggy Britton, commander, Sector Virginia. “The Coast Guard is incredibly grateful for the dedication, expertise, and cooperation of all agencies involved in this search. The teamwork displayed by all involved in these challenging conditions demonstrates the unwavering commitment of working together.”

Virginia Beach Ocean Rescue had red flags flying on the beach Saturday morning and said they would be up throughout the weekend.

"Please stay out of the water," they wrote on social media. "Water is dangerous with severe rip currents."

Water temperatures in the ocean were around 70 degrees Saturday night, News 3 weather forecaster Derrah Getter said.

More stories from Virginia Beach

• Search suspended for missing swimmers at VB Oceanfront

  Web Staff

• One critical after washing ashore at Oceanfront; 2 feared drowned: VBPD

  Jay Greene

• The NAS Oceana Air Show is back! What to know before heading on base

  Anthony Sabella

• Elderly man goes missing after trip to the DMV

  David Lance

• Students get a sneak peek of air show at Oceana during STEM day

  Beverly Kidd

• VB EMS facing challenges when it comes to staffing, equipment, and funding

  John Hood

• Virginia Beach mail-in ballots sent out with incorrect info

  Web Staff

• CHKD gives away and installs car seats for families

  John Hood