Chicago, IL — A tragic accident claimed the life of a 52-year-old man Thursday afternoon when he fell from a jet ski into Lake Michigan near Navy Pier, authorities said.
Incident Occurred in East Grand Area
According to the Chicago Police Department, the incident occurred at around 4 p.m. in the 900 block of East Grand Avenue. The man was operating a jet ski when he unexpectedly fell into the water.
“The Chicago Fire Department’s Marine Unit recovered the man and transported him to Northwestern Hospital,” reported WGN-TV, “where he was pronounced dead.”
Investigation Underway
Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the accident. Area detectives are conducting a thorough investigation to determine if any contributing factors, such as equipment failure or safety violations, played a role.
- Location: 900 block of East Grand, near Navy Pier
- Victim: 52-year-old male, died after being transported to Northwestern Hospital
- Response: Chicago Fire Department Marine Unit recovered the victim from the water
Safety Concerns and Precautions
Incidents involving personal watercraft highlight the importance of safety precautions, including life jackets, adherence to speed limits, and awareness of water conditions. Authorities urge anyone planning to operate jet skis or other watercraft on Lake Michigan to follow established safety guidelines to prevent accidents.
While tragic, the accident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with recreational water activities. Marine units and emergency responders in Chicago are regularly trained to handle such emergencies to minimize casualties.
“No other information was released at this time,” WGN-TV noted, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact the Chicago Police Department to assist with the ongoing investigation.
What are your thoughts on water safety and recreational boating? Share your insights in the comments.












