Gary, Indiana – On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at approximately 6:18 p.m., units from the Gary Fire Department and Gary Police Department were dispatched to 1 North Grand Boulevard for a report of a possible drowning.

Upon arrival, EMS personnel located a 57-year-old male lying prone on the shoreline. There were no obvious signs of trauma or indications of foul play. An acquaintance on the scene reported that the individual had washed up from the water and had been down for approximately 30 minutes prior to EMS arrival. No CPR was initiated before emergency responders arrived.

The patient was found pulseless and not breathing. The scene was turned over to the Gary Police Department, and EMS remained on site until the Lake County Coroner’s Office arrived and pronounced the individual deceased at 7:18 p.m. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was contacted to assist with the investigation. The call occurred outside the scheduled hours for fire department water rescue patrol and when lifeguards are on duty.

"This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of water safety," said Gary Fire Chief Larry E. Tillman II. "We encourage all residents and visitors to exercise caution when near the water, never swim alone, and be mindful of conditions that can change quickly. Simple safety precautions can save lives."

Gary, Indiana – On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at approximately 6:18 p.m., units from the Gary Fire Department and Gary Police Department were dispatched to 1 North Grand Boulevard for a report of a possible drowning.

Upon arrival, EMS personnel located a 57-year-old male lying prone on the shoreline. There were no obvious signs of trauma or indications of foul play. An acquaintance on the scene reported that the individual had washed up from the water and had been down for approximately 30 minutes prior to EMS arrival.  

The patient was found pulseless and not breathing. The scene was turned over to the Gary Police Department, and EMS remained on site until the Lake County Coroner’s Office arrived and pronounced the individual deceased at 7:18 p.m. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was contacted to assist with the investigation. The call occurred outside the scheduled hours for fire department water rescue patrol and when lifeguards are on duty.

"This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of water safety," said Gary Fire Chief Larry E. Tillman II. "We encourage all residents and visitors to exercise caution when near the water, never swim alone, and be mindful of conditions that can change quickly. Simple safety precautions can save lives."

The incident remains under investigation by the Gary Police Department, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and the Lake County Coroner’s Office.

The Gary Fire Department and Gary Police Department extend their deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.

Media Contact: Gary Fire Department

Office of the Fire Chief

garyfire@gary.gov

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