The Wildwoods, NJ – September 25, 2022 – The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) has issued the following statement in response to this weekend’s events:
First, and foremost, our hearts go out to the families of those who tragically lost their loved ones last evening.
The Wildwoods are a family destination and The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority supported four family-friendly sanctioned events over the weekend that were enjoyed by all who attended.
Unfortunately, an unsanctioned event – a pop-up car rally – attracted participants who were at the root of the issues that occurred over the weekend. Our local police departments were given advance notice that this group would be coming into town, and they immediately took action. Additional police were mobilized from throughout the state to come to the Wildwoods to assist our local police. Heavy police presence was set up throughout the town to deter the troublemakers. Police took every precaution and even closed the bridge into town to prevent more people from coming into our resort. Unfortunately, there were a number of incidents late Saturday night that resulted in accidents, injuries, and loss of life.
We await a complete investigation and police report to look into what transpired over the weekend.
We will continue to bring signature family-friendly events to the Wildwoods to extend the tourism season for all to enjoy and will not support nor condone any unauthorized events.
