Father, Son Drown In Northern MI Lake: Sheriff

CHEBOYGAN COUNTY, MI — A father and son drowned in a northern Michigan lake Saturday, according to officials.

Officers received reports at 3:21 p.m. Saturday about two people in distress in the water at Burt Lake, near Maple Bay Campground in Burt Township, officials said.

Witnesses told officers that a 16-year-old boy from Levering had been underwater for roughly seven minutes. They also said his father jumped in and tried to save him, officials said.

Divers responded within minutes and found the body of the 54-year-old man underwater, officials said.

Shortly later, the body of the teenager was also pulled from the water, officials said.

Both were taken to Maple Bay Boat Launch, where officials said emergency life-saving measures took place.

Despite those efforts, officials said the father died at the scene, while the teenager was taken to McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey, where he died.

Officials do not believe drugs or alcohol played a role in the drownings.

Officials did not immediately identify the victims as the investigation continues.

Officials urged everyone swimming to wear life jackets and keep rescue equipment, such as reaching poles or life rings, nearby at all times.

"The Sheriff's Office extends condolences to the families affected by this tragic event and urges everyone to prioritize safety around water to prevent future tragedies," police said.