Second Belmar Girl Pulled From The Ocean Dies After Four Days On Life Support

BELMAR - Everyone had hoped and prayed that 12-year-old Emily Gonzalez-Perez of Belmar would make it.

The girl had been fighting for her life ever since she was rescued from rough surf on Thursday, along with her cousin Mitzi Hernandez, 13, who drowned off the Ninth Avenue beach.

"She fought valiantly over the last couple of days," Doherty said of Gonzalez-Perez. "Her little body gave out today. It's heartbreaking for the families."

Emily died at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where she had been since she and her cousin since they were pulled from the ocean on an unguarded beach, according to police.

"It's a terrible tragedy that's shaken our community in Belmar," said Doherty, whose own children attended Belmar Elementary School with the victims.

Belmar established a GoFundMe page for the families of the two girls several days ago, to help with expenses.

The initial goal for the campaign was $20,000. But donations have already surpassed that and hae jumped to $42,260 by Monday evening. Belmar is also setting aside $20,000 of the proceeds from the upcoming Mayor's Ball for the family, Doherty said.

The two families face enormous financial challenges, he said.

To donate, please go to GoFundMe Belmar's Angels.

Image: GoFundMe