A Missouri man is being called a hero after he died while saving two children from the waters of Lake Michigan in Racine County on Sunday.
Authorities reported that on Aug. 22, at around 3:05 p.m., deputies responded to North Beach as a man was unaccounted for. The man had gone into Lake Michigan looking to rescue two boys who were in that water just to the north of North Pier by some large rocks, Fox2 reported.
The 40-year-old man from Missouri jumped into the water to save the boys, who he was reportedly related to, after realizing they were in distress.
A boat for the Racine County Sheriff's office was already near the area and immediately began searching for the man. In less than an hour, he was found in the water unconscious. Lifesaving efforts were attempted, but he was later pronounced dead at Ascension All Saints Hospital.
The Racine Sheriff's Office released a statement praising the man for his heroics.
"The Sheriff's Office commends the heroic actions of the man who assisted in saving the lives of these two young children. Our thoughts and prayers are with him, his family, and his loved ones. We also encourage people to take the time to investigate current lake conditions before entering Lake Michigan and take all necessary precautions. This, like the other unfortunate drownings this summer, are tragic, incredibly sad, and preventable," Sheriff Schmaling said to Fox2.
According to authorities, all related parties were from Michigan.
There was also a hazardous water condition warning on Lake Michigan issued by the U.S. National Weather Service during the accident. This included the braces of Racine County. The warning included the chance of waves up to five feet and dangerous currents.
As of now, the man's identity has not been released as the Sheriff's office works to notify his family.
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