A day of fun turned to tragedy in Berrien Springs on Saturday when 19-year-old Micah Harris drowned while swimming with friends at Lake Chapin.
Authorities say Harris and his friends were swimming toward the bridge pylons, a popular spot for locals, when he began struggling just a short distance from shore. Witnesses reported that he went under quickly and never resurfaced.
Bystanders immediately attempted to rescue him while others called 911. Emergency crews, including the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, dive teams, and fire departments, arrived shortly after 4 p.m. and launched a large-scale search using boats, sonar equipment, and divers.
Family and friends gathered anxiously at the lakeside as the search stretched on for hours. At 7:57 p.m., divers recovered Harris’s body. Despite attempts at resuscitation, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed the death as a tragic drowning, noting that strong currents near bridge structures can pose hidden dangers to swimmers.
The loss has shaken the Berrien Springs community. Friends and classmates described Micah as kind-hearted, full of energy, and a young man with a promising future. Social media has since been filled with heartfelt tributes, remembering his laughter, adventurous spirit, and the light he brought into the lives of those around him.
As loved ones mourn, the community has been reminded of both the fragility of life and the importance of water safety.