Investigation Into Missing Highland Park Swimmer Continues, Search Called Off

HIGHLAND PARK, IL —A Highland Park investigation into the location of a swimmer who was reported missing over the weekend continued Monday, according to authorities.

Authorities launched the search Saturday after a person was reported missing while swimming at the Openlands Lakeshore Preserve in Fort Sheridan. Rescue teams responded around noon after receiving a call about a distressed swimmer struggling in the water.

Before authorities arrived, a bystander attempted to help the swimmer, but was unable to reach them due to strong currents in Lake Michigan.

The Highland Park Fire Department water rescue team immediately launched search and rescue efforts, but was unable to find the swimmer. During the search, a member of the dive team was briefly reported missing, but was later located uninjured.

Rescue divers continued to deploy sonar technology and an underwater rover, but were still unable to locate the swimmer when the search resumed on Sunday. The city's police drone was also deployed in the search effort.

Due to the strength and speed of currents o Lake Michigan, the City of Highland Park called the search off on Sunday.

The swimmer has not been identified, and a police investigation is still ongoing.

"The City greatly appreciates the assistance of dive teams and EMS support from neighboring communities throughout the region in responding to this call," officials said in a statement.

The National Weather Service issued a warning for north-eastern Illinois due to large waves and strong currents, producing dangerous swim conditions string Tuesday and lasting through Sunday.