Search suspended for child missing in Lake Michigan due to 'hazardous conditions'

Search efforts for a child reported to have entered Lake Michigan were suspended due to hazardous conditions that threatened responder safety, officials said. The case began when LaPorte County Dispatch Center received a report at about 5:43 p.m. Monday that a child was seen entering Washington Park Beach in Indiana, disappearing beneath the water after bystanders reported red shorts. A multi-agency response involving the Michigan City Fire Department, Michigan City Police Department, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and La Porte County EMS deployed four MCFD divers, a DNR diver, a fishing charter boat, and drones. After an extensive search complicated by strong currents, changing waves, and limited visibility, dive operations were halted. Three MCFD divers and one DNR diver sustained minor injuries and were evaluated by hospital or EMS.