BERRIEN SPRINGS, Mich. — A 19-year-old man drowned Saturday afternoon in Lake Chapin in Berrien County after reportedly struggling while swimming with friends, according to the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities have identified the victim as Micah Harris.
Emergency crews were dispatched to the area of South Main Street at Lake Chapin around 4:01 p.m. following reports of a missing swimmer. Deputies said several people were swimming in the lake and attempting to reach the bridge pylons when Harris began experiencing difficulty in the water. Witnesses told investigators that Harris went under and did not resurface.
Friends and nearby boaters immediately attempted to rescue him, pulling together life-saving efforts while awaiting emergency personnel. Despite their quick response, they were unable to locate or revive Harris. Dive teams from the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office were deployed to the scene shortly after and began a coordinated search of the area.
After several hours of searching, divers recovered Harris’s body at approximately 7:57 p.m., nearly four hours after he was first reported missing. The sheriff’s office confirmed that emergency responders performed all possible recovery and resuscitation measures before Harris was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities say conditions in Lake Chapin can be unpredictable, with strong currents and deep sections posing risks even for experienced swimmers. The tragic drowning serves as a reminder of the dangers of open-water swimming without flotation devices or supervision in areas not designated for recreational use.
The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the incident to determine whether any contributing factors, such as water conditions or possible fatigue, played a role in Harris’s death. No foul play is suspected at this time. Officials extended their condolences to Harris’s family and friends as the community mourns the loss of a young life cut short.