Body of missing swimmer recovered from Lake Michigan

GARY, Ind. (AP) - The body of a woman who disappeared in choppy Lake Michigan waters off a northwestern Indiana beach has been recovered.

Gary Police Cmdr Jack Hamady says the body of 24-year-old Tiara Hardy was recovered Tuesday about 150 yards from shore.

Hardy went missing Monday as she swam with friends at Gary's Marquette Park Beach. Officials say they believe Hardy of Merrillville was swept away by high waves.

The Gary Fire Department said there were reports of three to four foot waves and strong rip currents at the time Hardy went missing.

A beach hazard statement had been issued by the National Weather Service due to dangerous waves and currents along the Indiana lakeshore. There were no lifeguards on duty at the time of Hardy's disappearance. A Gary official says warning flags are removed when the lifeguards go off-duty.