Search for woman swept into water at Cape Spear now a recovery mission, RNC says

Emergency crews were still searching for a woman who was swept into the water at Cape Spear on Wednesday evening, with police saying they now consider it a recovery mission.

First responders received an initial report around 4 p.m. on Wednesday that a man and a woman had been swept into the water. An update from the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary on Thursday afternoon said the man was able to climb to shore before rescue crews arrived, and is being treated in hospital for minor injuries.

The woman couldn't get back to shore, and is still missing.

Speaking with CBC News at the scene of the search Wednesday evening, St. John's Regional Fire Department Platoon Chief Dean Foley said there was 'no likelihood' the woman survived and he considers the search a recovery mission.

Toni Ryan, who has lived in the area for over six decades, told CBC News Thursday that she feared the worst last evening.

"You see a helicopter fly by and your heart skips a beat, because you know that there's a strong probability someone has gone into the water. And experience has told me if you go into that water, it's highly unlikely anyone can get you out," Ryan said.

"Don't go on the rocks."

The RNC, Rovers Ground Search and Rescue and the Canadian Coast Guard are all involved in the recovery search.

Parks Canada also issued a statement Thursday, reminding the public to heed all warning signs and remain on designating trails in the area.

Pat Ryan, vice-president of trail management with the East Coast Trail Association, had a similar message.

"Stay on the path," he said. "Take your pictures, but, you know, be aware of where you are and be aware of the risks."

Download our free CBC News app to sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador. Sign up for our daily headlines newsletter here. Click here to visit our landing page.