Indiana Department of Natural Resources

402 W. Washington St.

Indianapolis, IN 46204

Man drowns while rescuing another in Lake Michigan (LaPorte County)

(Michigan City) Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a drowning that occurred yesterday at Washington Park beach.

At approximately 4:38 p.m., responders were dispatched to the beach area in reference to a person missing in the water.

Donald Turner, 28, of Portage, was swimming with his girlfriend when she began to struggle in the water. Turner went to her aid and was able to get her to safety before going under and not resurfacing.

A nearby swimmer located Turner's body a short distance away from where he was last seen. Michigan City Fire Department immediately rendered life saving measures. Turner was transported to Franciscan Hospital in Michigan City where he was pronounced deceased.

Assisting agencies were Michigan City Police Department, Michigan City Fire Department, Indiana State Police, United States Coast Guard and LaPorte County EMS.

Media Contact: Officer Nicole Baumann, DNR Law Enforcement, 219-741-7000, nbaumann@dnr.in.gov