MICHIGAN CITY, Indiana – A child that disappeared after entering Lake Michigan off an Indiana beach Monday evening has been found dead, according to officials.
The child's disappearance prompted an extensive search and rescue operation in high surf and dangerous currents that left four first responders injured.
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According to the Michigan City Fire Department, a child wearing red shorts entered the waters of Lake Michigan near Washington Park Beach and Michigan City's iconic pier and lighthouse at approximately 5:43 p.m.
Witnesses reported the child had disappeared beneath the surface of Lake Michigan.
An immediate multi-agency response ensued that featured rescue divers, a charter fishing boat and drone technology.
Hazardous water conditions on the Great Lake complicated rescue efforts by specialized divers.
Officials said the boy's body was recovered at 7:45 a.m. Wednesday in about 11 feet of water along the rocks on the east side of the Michigan City Pier, according to our affiliate FOX 32.
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During the challenging rescue effort that had responders battling through four to six-foot waves, three divers from the Michigan City Fire Department were injured and transported to a local hospital, the department said.
An Indiana Department of Natural Resources diver was also injured and evaluated by first responders at the scene.
"Strong currents, changing wave action and limited visibility beneath the water can quickly overwhelm even experienced swimmers and rescuers," the department said in a Facebook post. "We urge everyone to pay close attention to beach conditions, heed all posted warnings and stay out of the water when hazardous conditions are present."
At the time of the incident, the National Weather Service issued both a Beach Hazard Statement and a Small Craft Advisory due to strong winds and dangerous rip currents.
The Michigan City Fire Department is reminding people to pay attention to beach conditions, follow warning signs and stay out of the water when conditions are unsafe.
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