Micah Harris Obituary, Death – Authorities in Michigan are investigating a tragic incident that occurred on Saturday afternoon at Lake Chapin in Berrien Springs, where a 19-year-old man lost his life after going underwater while swimming. The Berrien Springs Oronoko Township Police Department confirmed the details in a press release, noting that several local agencies assisted in the rescue and recovery efforts.
According to police, officers were called to the area near South Main Street at Lake Chapin around 4 p.m. following reports of a missing swimmer. Witnesses at the scene told investigators that a group of people had been swimming near the bridge pylons when one of them began struggling in the water. Despite immediate efforts by nearby swimmers and boaters to reach him, they were unable to bring him safely to shore.
Emergency responders arrived within minutes, including officers from the Berrien Springs Oronoko Township Police Department, members of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, and local fire and rescue teams. Search operations began right away, focusing on the section of the lake where the swimmer was last seen.
After an extensive search, divers from the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team located and recovered the swimmer later that afternoon. He was identified as 19-year-old Micah Harris from Xenia, Ohio. Officials confirmed that Harris was a student at Andrews University, a private Christian university located in Berrien Springs.
The news of his passing has deeply affected the Andrews University community. In a statement, university officials expressed their condolences to Harris’s family, friends, and classmates, describing him as a bright and friendly young man who was an active member of the campus community. The school announced that grief counseling and support services would be made available to students and staff in the coming days.
Police said the incident remains under investigation as they work to determine the exact circumstances that led to the drowning. Authorities are reviewing witness statements, weather conditions, and water currents at the time of the event. No signs of foul play are suspected, and officials emphasized that it appears to have been a tragic accident.
Residents who live near Lake Chapin described the area as a popular summer spot for swimming and boating. However, the section near the bridge is known to have strong currents and deeper water, which can pose challenges even for experienced swimmers. Local officials have urged visitors to exercise caution and to always swim in designated safe areas when enjoying natural waterways.
The Berrien Springs Oronoko Township Police Department expressed gratitude to everyone who assisted at the scene, including community members who attempted to help before emergency crews arrived. They also thanked the Sheriff’s Office Dive Team for their quick and professional response.
Authorities used the incident as a reminder of the importance of water safety. They encouraged swimmers to wear life vests in open water, avoid swimming alone, and remain mindful of changing water conditions. Boaters were also advised to keep watch for people in the water and to alert emergency services immediately if someone appears to be in distress.
As the investigation continues, police are expected to release additional details once reports are completed. Meanwhile, friends and classmates of Micah Harris have begun sharing memories and messages of support online, remembering him for his kindness, dedication to his studies, and positive spirit.
The Berrien County community and Andrews University have both come together to honor his memory and support those grieving his loss. Local leaders have expressed sympathy to the Harris family, asking the public to keep them in their thoughts during this difficult time.
