Boating accident on Lake Michigan leaves several injured

RACINE – A serious boating accident late Sunday evening on Lake Michigan left several people injured, according to preliminary reports, requiring an extensive rescue operation.

The incident occurred around 9:27 p.m., about a mile from shore near the boat ramp on 5th Street.

According to reports from the Racine County News/Scanner site, two boats collided violently, causing immediate distress among those on board. The collision prompted a rapid and extensive response from multiple emergency agencies, including the Racine Fire Department (RFD), South Shore Fire Department (SSFD), Racine Police Department (RAPD), Racine County Sheriff’s Office (RASO), and the Racine County Dive Team.

Witnesses reported hearing people screaming for help after the accident. Emergency responders quickly gathered at the 5th Street Boat Launch, which was designated as the staging area for the rescue operation. One child who suffered life-threatening injuries was resuscitated, while another child suffered a serious head injury. Several adults also sustained injuries and required immediate medical attention.

Both boats involved in the collision were taken to the marina while officials attempted to locate anyone on board. It was unclear if anyone was still in the water, which continued the search by rescue teams.

The marina was in chaos and additional police units were called in to control the crowd. A third boat with another injured child arrived at ReefPoint Marina, so more ambulances had to be called.

According to preliminary reports, several people were taken to local hospitals for further treatment.

The seriousness of the incident was underlined by the landing of two Flight for Life helicopters at the hospital to evacuate the seriously injured. It is believed that up to eleven people were injured, but this number is currently unconfirmed.

Stay tuned to Racine County Eye for further updates on this developing story and follow us on social media for real-time information. Keep your boating trips safe by reading our boating safety tips and local resources.