Drowning in Lake Michigan

On November 15th, 2020, at 10:12PM First Responders from the Muskegon Fire and Police
Departments were dispatched to the south breakwall at Pere Marquette Park (1600 Beach St) on
a report of subjects swept off the pier into Lake Michigan. Officers located two males who
reported that they had been on the pier with a 3rd man when high winds gusts coupled with large
waves swept the men into the Lake. The first two men got themselves out of the Lake and called 911.

Officers located a man clinging to rocks on the Northside of the south breakwall.
Firefighters, working from off the pier and by boat, made numerous attempts to rescue the
victim. Winds gusting over 50 mph, and 8-12 waves prevented rescue.
A United States Coast Guard (USCG) helicopter assisted in searching for the victim, 29 year old
Lance Jenkins of Fruitport Township. After several hours of attempts and searching, the rescue was called off due to conditions.

Recovery operations will continue with USCG flight
operations, and divers will be sent in once conditions safely allow.

The Muskegon Fire Department was assisted by Officials from the USCG, North Muskegon Fire,
Muskegon Heights Fire, Norton Shores Fire, and Muskegon Township Fire Departments.