Child disappears in Lake Michigan as 4 first responders are injured during hazardous rescue effort

MICHIGAN CITY, Indiana –A child disappeared after entering Lake Michigan off an Indiana beach Monday evening, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation in high surf and dangerous currents that left four first responders injured.

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.

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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.

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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."

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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.

Officials suspended search operations Monday night because of deteriorating lake conditions and darkness.

Recovery efforts were expected to resume Tuesday morning, weather and lake conditions permitting.