Authorities identify 2 men who drowned near Port Sheldon pier
The victims have been identified as 24-year-old Philip Lochirco of Warrenville, Illinois, and 26-year-old Jalen Shaffer of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
PORT SHELDON TWP. — Authorities have released the identities of two young men who drowned in Lake Michigan over the weekend following a tragic chain of events near the Pigeon Lake channel.
The victims have been identified as 24-year-old Philip Lochirco of Warrenville, Illinois, and 26-year-old Jalen Shaffer of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
According to the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the scene on Saturday, June 13, after receiving emergency calls regarding a swimmer struggling in the water.
Investigators established that Lochirco and Shaffer were part of a larger group of acquaintances staying in the area for a social gathering. On Saturday afternoon, several members of the group jumped from a nearby pier into the lake. Shortly after entering the water, Lochirco began experiencing difficulties.
In a frantic effort to save him, multiple people from the group dove into the water to render aid. During the rescue attempt, Shaffer also went under the surface and failed to re-emerge.
Group members managed to pull one of the men to shore, while bystanders utilized flotation devices and coordinated with 911 dispatchers. Arriving deputies, alongside Grand Haven Township Fire personnel and the Ottawa County Marine Patrol, located the second man and brought him to land.
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Lifesaving measures were performed on both men, but medical treatment was ultimately unsuccessful. Both Lochirco and Shaffer were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities are asking anyone with additional information regarding the incident to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office or Silent Observer at 877-88-SILENT (745368), or to submit a tip online at mosotips.com.
— Submitted by the Ottawa County Sheriff's Department. To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
