Teenager dies in Chippewa County boating accident

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — Chippewa County Sheriff's Department has taken to social media to inform the public that a young person has lost his life in a boating accident between Drummond and Howard Islands in Chippewa County.

"On 7-30-2024 at 0831 hrs Chippewa County Central Dispatch received a 911 call in reference to a boating accident/water rescue," said the post.

A 14-year-old boy fell from a boat, was run over and became tangled in the propeller, said the Sheriff's Department.

"The female operator of the boat quickly disengaged the motor and jumped into the water to assist. The boat operator was able to flag down a fisherman passing by for assistance."

The boat operator and fisherman pulled the young man out of the water and transported him to Drummond Island where he was turned over to Drummond Island EMS.

He was pronounced dead shortly after on scene.

The Chippewa County Sheriff's Office was assisted by Drummond Island Fire and Rescue, EMS, Central Dispatch and the Chippewa County Victim Services Unit (VSU)

"Please keep the victim's family and boat operator in your thoughts and prayers."

This accident is still under investigation, the post added.