Beach goers rescue teenager who nearly drowned in Lake Michigan

MCP file photo of Stearns Park beach.

LUDINGTON — Bystanders’ quick thinking saved a teenager who nearly drowned in Lake Michigan Monday, July 14, at Stearns Park beach.

The 18-year-old female from Ada, Michigan is currently in critical but stable condition, said Ludington Police Chief Chris Jones.

“On Monday, July 14, 2025, at approximately 11:55 a.m., the Ludington Police Department, Ludington Fire Department and Life EMS were dispatched to Stearns Park beach in response to a report of a possible drowning involving a teenage female,” states Chief Jones in a press release. “The initial caller reported that the individual was being pulled from the water by friends.

“A Michigan Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer, who was in the vicinity at the time, was the first to arrive on scene, followed shortly by officers from the Ludington Police Department and a Michigan State Police trooper. Upon arrival, first responders found an 18-year-old female from Ada, Michigan, who was breathing and had a pulse.

“First responders immediately placed the individual in the recovery position and administered appropriate first aid until Life EMS arrived and assumed care. The victim was transported to Corewell Health Ludington Hospital Emergency Department, where she was stabilized before being airlifted by AeroMed to Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. As of the time of this release, the patient remains in critical but stable condition.

“The Ludington Police Department would like to express sincere gratitude to the bystanders who acted quickly and decisively, helping to remove the victim from the water,” stated Chief Jones. “Special thanks are also extended to Paw Paw Police Department Chief Eric Rottman and a family member, who immediately began CPR efforts that are believed to have been lifesaving.

“We also extend our appreciation to all agencies that provided assistance, including the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State Police, Mason County Sheriff’s Office, Ludington Fire Department, and Life EMS.”

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