The search for a missing fisherman on Lake Michigan came to a tragic end on Monday when his body was discovered in the waters of northwest Indiana. The deceased, identified as 67-year-old Michael Barnes of Valparaiso, had been fishing from the beach when his boat began to drift away into the lake, as confirmed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. In response, Barnes entered the water around 11:30 a.m. near Burns Ditch, reportedly in an attempt to retrieve the vessel, approximately some 60 yards from shore.
Despite the rapid response by nearby private fishing boats, along with efforts by Indiana conservation officers and the Lake County Sheriff's Department, Barnes was not immediately located. An extensive search ensued, and, according to FOX32 Chicago, around 1:40 p.m., a remotely operated underwater vehicle, equipped with sonar and video, found Barnes in the lake. Divers from the Portage Fire Department subsequently recovered his body, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
As reported by ABC7 Chicago, apart from privates fishing boats and the Indiana Department of Conservation, multiple agencies contributed to the search and recovery operation. These included fire departments from Portage, Porter, Burns Harbor, and Ogden Dunes, along with dive teams from Porter County.
The specific circumstances leading to Barnes's death have not been released, and the story remains developing as officials investigate the incident further. No other information was immediately available following the discovery. The community has been affected by the loss, with neighbors and local fishers acknowledging the inherent risks of the trade and the unforgiving nature of Lake Michigan's waters.
