Two men in their 20s drown after being pulled under during water rescue attempt in Lake Michigan

Two men died in Michigan following an outing with friends at Lake Michigan that turned tragic in a matter of moments. Philip Lochirco, 24, dove from the south pier of the Pigeon Lake Channel into Lake Michigan on June 13 alongside a group of friends after one of them experienced difficulty swimming in the lake. Authorities later reported that both Lochirco and Jalen Shaffer, 26, died following the incident.

According to a report by People, the group had jumped into the lake for a swim when it became apparent that Lochirco was struggling in the water. Friends who were still on shore entered the water in an attempt to assist him.

In a separate report by Fox17 West Michigan, Shaffer’s father, Joel, provided additional details about the incident. According to him, Shaffer entered the water alongside three other friends near the Pigeon Lake Channel in Port Sheldon Township. At some point, Shaffer disappeared beneath the surface.

“They couldn’t find him, but then they saw a body. It was my son, it was my son Jalen, and that was the body that they found,” Joel said.

Reports indicate that another member of the group also began struggling in the water but was pulled safely back to shore by friends. Bystanders near the lake noticed the situation and alerted emergency responders.

The Ottawa County Marine Patrol and Grand Haven Township Fire Rescue responded to the scene and rescued the other person from the water. First responders attempted lifesaving measures on both Lochirco and Shaffer, but the two men were pronounced dead at the scene.

Joel said he believed his son died while trying to help others. He also said Shaffer’s faith played a significant role in his life. Shaffer worked at Bridge Street Ministries, where those who knew him remembered a young man whose impact far exceeded his years.

Bridge Street Ministries Executive Director Ryan Waalkes also commented on Shaffer’s life, saying, “I think it’s amazing that you can say a 26-year-old left a legacy, and Jalen truly is leaving a legacy.” He added, “Jalen was the kind of person that embodied the love of Jesus. He is the kind of person that when you saw Jalen, you knew more of what God was like.”

Shaffer’s brother-in-law, Kyler Dunn, also reflected on his life, saying his memory would remain with those who knew him. Dunn added, “I look forward to seeing him again someday when we meet again in heaven, but for now, I get to live the rest of my life honoring him and ultimately living for our Lord and Savior, Jesus, just like he did.” The family has also shared a GoFundMe page for those wishing to provide support.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office said there is currently no indication of foul play, though the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or may have additional information to contact investigators.

Potential witnesses are encouraged to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office at (616) 738-4000 or Silent Observer at 1-877-88-SILENT (745368).