CHICAGO, IL – Officials have transitioned the search for a missing individual at 63rd Street Beach into a recovery operation, following a weekend of tragic incidents on Lake Michigan that have prompted safety warnings.
A vigil was held on the West Side for a 27-year-old woman whose body was recovered from Lake Michigan near Navy Pier on Saturday. Her family is grappling with the loss as police continue their investigation.
The Chicago Fire Department responded to reports of two people in the water at 63rd Street Beach. While one person was rescued, the search for the missing male has now shifted to recovery. This occurred during the first summer weekend, which drew large crowds and numerous boats to the area known as the Playpen.
Brady Rule, a captain with Boat Safe Chicago, emphasized the importance of treating Lake Michigan with the same caution as an ocean. He noted that the weekend’s weather and increased boating activity contributed to the challenges on the water.
The influx of people renting boats, while positive, also brings increased risks due to inexperience, Rule explained. Strong winds further exacerbated dangerous conditions, causing issues with boats’ anchors and leading to potential collisions.
Boat Safe Chicago released footage of a boat that sank on Friday, with buoys now marking the location to warn others. Meanwhile, in the suburbs, Lake County Sheriff’s Marine Unit responded to a crash where a wave runner collided with a boat, injuring one person.
These incidents serve as a stark reminder for those enjoying Lake Michigan to know their limits, especially when alcohol is involved. Safety experts urge everyone to exercise caution and remain vigilant to prevent further tragedies.