Recovery efforts are currently underway after a vehicle drove off a fishing pier in Virginia Beach, becoming fully submerged in the ocean early Saturday morning, according to local police.

Authorities were alerted to the incident at approximately 6:52 a.m. ET after receiving a 911 call reporting the incident at the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. Police swiftly arrived at the scene, where witnesses informed them that a car had crashed through the pier's gates before plunging into the water.

A video of the incident, initially posted on Facebook and later reported by The Virginia Pilot, depicted the car driving along the pier and momentarily braking shortly before it fell into the water. By the time officers arrived, the vehicle had completely submerged and was no longer visible from the pier.

The exact number of individuals inside the vehicle remains unclear. However, due to the submerged condition of the car, authorities presume that anyone within it is deceased. The motive behind the driver's actions also remains unknown at this time.

In response, a marine patrol unit equipped with sonar equipment was dispatched to aid in locating the submerged vehicle. Local authorities, including the Virginia Beach Fire Department, are working in conjunction with the police to devise a plan for the safe retrieval of both the vehicle and any potential occupants.

As recovery operations continue, authorities aim to gather more information about the incident, including the identities of those involved. Further updates regarding the progress of the recovery efforts and any additional details will be provided as the investigation unfolds.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present when vehicles venture into areas not intended for their use, highlighting the need for caution and adherence to established safety measures.