Two young men died over the weekend after a frightening water emergency on Lake Michigan turned a social gathering into a tragedy.
The victims were identified as 24-year-old Philip Lochirco of Warrenville, Illinois, and 26-year-old Jalen Shaffer of Grand Rapids, Michigan, according to reports citing the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said the men were with a group of friends in the area for a gathering on Saturday, June 13, when some members of the group decided to jump from the south pier of the Pigeon Lake Channel into Lake Michigan.
After Lochirco jumped into the water, he began to struggle, according to reports.
Several people then jumped in to try to help him, including Shaffer. But Shaffer also went underwater during the rescue attempt.
The group was able to pull one of the men to shore. Bystanders also rushed to help by providing flotation devices and calling 911.
Deputies responded to the scene along with Grand Haven Township Fire and the Ottawa County Marine Patrol. Emergency crews helped bring the second man back to shore.
Despite lifesaving efforts, both Lochirco and Shaffer were pronounced dead at the scene.
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is still ongoing, but the deaths are not believed to be suspicious.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office at 616-738-4000 or Silent Observer at 1-877-88-SILENT.
