Search underway for teen missing in Lake Michigan

LAKE MICHIGAN – Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating as a search is underway for a 17-year-old Eagan, Minnesota, teen who went missing Tuesday in Lake Michigan.

Tuesday at 2:10 p.m. Central time, Porter County 911 received a call regarding multiple swimmers in distress near County Road 300 East and West Lake Front Drive in Beverly Shores. Responders from multiple agencies arrived and located two distressed swimmers and a Good Samaritan onshore, requiring medical attention. The three individuals were transported by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and are stable.

Emergency personnel confirmed a third swimmer was unaccounted for and last seen approximately 300 feet from shore. Rescue personnel attempted to enter the water to search but were hindered by large waves.

A shore-based search was initiated, and drones were used as vessels from the United States Coast Guard, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit assisted in the offshore search.

Search efforts will continue contingent on water conditions. At the time of the incident, a beach hazards statement was in effect, with waves of 6 to 9 feet forecasted.

Other agencies assisting included  Indiana Dunes National Park Rangers, Beverly Shores Fire Department, Beverly Shores Police Department, Burns Harbor Fire Department, Chesterton Fire Department, Northwest Health EMS, Portage Fire Department, Portage Police Department, Porter Fire Department, and Porter County Sheriff’s Office.

The names of involved parties are being withheld pending notification of relatives.