Two men in their 20s died over the weekend after a tragic water emergency on Lake Michigan.
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 part of a group of friends who had gathered in the area for a social event on Saturday, June 13.
At some point, several members of the group decided to jump from the south pier of the Pigeon Lake Channel into Lake Michigan.
That is when Lochirco began struggling in the water.
As the frightening situation unfolded, other people in the group jumped in to try to help him. Shaffer was among those who entered the water, but he also went under.
The group was able to pull one of the men back to shore. Bystanders also stepped in to help, 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 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 ongoing, but the deaths are not believed to be suspicious.
Anyone with more information about what happened is asked to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office at 616-738-4000 or Silent Observer at 1-877-88-SILENT.
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