Search continues for 17-year-old swimmer missing in Lake Michigan in northwest Indiana

PORTER COUNTY, Ind. - A 17-year-old swimmer was reported missing in Lake Michigan in northwest Indiana Tuesday afternoon.

The Porter Fire Department responded to a call of multiple swimmers in distress near the intersection of CR 300 East and West Lake Front Drive in Beverly Shores at 2:10 p.m.

Two swimmers were rescued by a Good Samaritan and all three were transported to a local hospital in stable condition, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.  

A third swimmer, a 17-year-old from Eagan, Minn., was still unaccounted for. They were last seen about 300 ft from shore. First responders attempted to search in the water, but were set back by large waves. 

A Beach Hazards Statement was in effect at the time of the incident, with waves of 6 to 9 feet forecasted.

Crews searched from shore using drones, while the US Coast Guard and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit continued the offshore search. The search was called off later in the night due to darkness.

Search efforts resumed Wednesday morning.