Water rescue at 5th Street Boat Ramp, Racine
RACINE, Wis. - A 12-year-old boy died following a Lake Michigan water rescue in Racine on Wednesday, Aug. 13.
What we know:
The Racine County Sheriff’s Office said at approximately 8:15 a.m., deputies were dispatched to the Pershing Park Boat Launch, for a 12-year-old boy who had gone underwater and not resurfaced.
Water rescue at 5th Street Boat Ramp, Racine
Upon arrival, the deputies had contact with the Racine Police Department and Racine Fire Department, who were already on scene.
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Deputies learned that three boys were playing and swimming near the boat launch. One boy jumped from an elevated ledge into the water. He resurfaced but appeared to struggle to return to shallow water before going under again and not resurfacing.
The sheriff’s office said the boy's friend tried to reach him but was unsuccessful.
The Racine Fire Department Dive Team began searching the water, and the Racine County Dive Team was also deployed. At approximately 9:15 a.m., Racine Fire Department divers located the boy under the water near the boat launch.
Water rescue at 5th Street Boat Ramp, Racine
The boy was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
What they're saying:
The sheriff’s office urges the public to use extreme caution in and around bodies of water – especially for individuals with limited swimming abilities.
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Additionally, the Racine Fire Department reminds the public that swimming in any body of water can be unpredictable, and even strong swimmers can have trouble in the water. Swimming in an area without lifeguards or rescue flotation devices is not recommended.
"Our sincerest condolences go out to the young man’s family and loved ones during this tragic time," Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said.
The Source: FOX6 News was at the 5th Street Boat Ramp. Information is from the Racine Fire Department and Racine County Sheriff's Office.