July 31, 2025 10:20p
(WGTD)---A 15-year-old girl is in critical condition after being pulled under in a Lake Michigan lagoon on Racine's south side.
The incident happened at the end of 16th St. along Wisconsin Ave. at about 6:30 Thursday evening.
According to a news release from the Racine County Sheriff's Office, a caller reported that a girl was having trouble in the water about 30 feet from shore. While on the phone with dispatch, the caller lost sight of her.
Boats from the Racine Fire Dept. and the sheriff's office responded. Within 15 minutes of the call, personnel on the fire boat located the girl about 20 ft. from shore, pulled her out and began life-saving measures. She regained a pulse and was transferred to a Milwaukee hospital.
Investigators determined the victim was in the water with a group of friends and started to struggle. One tried to help but couldn't hold on to the panicking teen.
Authorities said conditions at the time in the lagoon were poor with 25 mile per hour sustained winds, three-foot waves and visible rip currents.
The news release says there are warning signs in the area. In addition, a beach hazards statement for high waves and dangerous currents was in effect, and is expected to remain in place through early Friday afternoon.
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