4 bystanders credited with saving struggling swimmer in Lake Michigan

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Four bystanders are being credited with saving a man’s life after a swimmer nearly drowned Wednesday in Lake Michigan.

The Ludington Police Department issued a news release on the incident Thursday afternoon. LPD says rescue crews were sent to Stearns Park shortly after 5:30 p.m. for a report of a man struggling in the water.

The caller said the man had been struggling for several minutes by the time four bystanders were able to get to him and swim him over to an arriving Mason County Sheriff’s Office boat.

The man was unresponsive by the time they arrived at the boat. Rescue personnel started CPR and the swimmer was rushed to Corewell Health’s Ludington Hospital. He has since been flown to Corewell’s Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids and listed in critical but stable condition.

Police credited the bystanders and the quick response from rescue crews for the save.

“Ludington Police would like to thank the four young adults that risked their lives, in rough waters, in an attempt to save the life of a stranger,” LPD stated . “We would also like to thank the Mason County Sheriff’s Office deputies for their swift action while on the boat, as well as their coordination with the Ludington Police personnel and other first responders. The actions taken by all first responders undoubtedly saved the victim’s life and spoke highly of their dedication to the community they serve.”

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