Boy, 15, Rescued From Frigid Lake Michigan Water

RACINE, WI -- Authorities say a 15-year-old boy and his 16-year-old friend were walking on the icy shore along North Pier when the ice underneath them gave way, sending the 15- year-old into the water.

As the last traces of light gave way to nightfall, multiple first-responders mounted a water rescue and were able to save the boy's life. Sheriff Schmaling stated: “If it wasn’t for the quick actions of our first responders, we undoubtedly would have a much different outcome”

At just after 6 p.m. Wednesday, the Racine County Dive Team, Racine County Sheriff’s Office, Racine Police Department, and the city of Racine Fire and Rescue personnel all responded to the North Pier along the Lake Michigan shore for a report of a 15-year-old boy who had fallen into the water.

Authorities learned that he was struggling to stay above water and to swim to shore as the strong waves were pushing him further out into the lake.

A Sheriff’s deputy on scene and City of Racine Fire and Rescue personnel were then able to launch a rescue effort into the frigid and ice-covered waters to safely retrieve the boy.

Officials said the boy, who is a Racine resident, was then transported to a nearby hospital where he remains in stable condition and is being treated for symptoms related to being in the cold water.