A 22-year-old Gary man has died after a large-scale water rescue Sunday evening at Marquette Park Beach, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Gary Fire Department.

At approximately 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, Lake County 911 received a report of a swimmer missing in the waters of Lake Michigan near Marquette Park Beach. The call prompted an immediate response from multiple fire, law enforcement, EMS, aviation, and dive rescue agencies.

According to Indiana Conservation Officers, Jalen Robinson, 22, of Gary, had been swimming with two friends and jumping into the waves when all three reportedly lost their footing and drifted into deeper water. Robinson’s two friends were able to make it back to shore, but Robinson did not resurface.

An extensive search was launched along the shoreline and in the water. At approximately 8:05 p.m., the Lake County Sheriff’s Department Aviation Unit located Robinson, who appeared unresponsive in Lake Michigan. Guided by the helicopter crew, first responders entered the water, recovered him, and brought him to shore.

Emergency personnel immediately began CPR and advanced life support measures before Robinson was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Gary Fire Chief Larry Tillman extended condolences to Robinson’s family and praised the coordinated response by the numerous agencies involved.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this tragedy,” Tillman said. “The successful coordination of multiple public safety agencies highlights the importance of regional partnerships during water rescue emergencies. We commend all responding personnel for their professionalism, dedication, and teamwork under challenging conditions.”

Chief Tillman also reminded residents and visitors to only enter the water when lifeguards are on duty and to remain mindful of changing lake conditions.

The response included personnel from the Gary Fire Department, Gary Police Department, Lake County Sheriff’s Department Aviation Unit, Lake County Sheriff’s Department Dive Team, Lake County Coroner’s Office, Indiana Conservation Officers, and the Regional Dive Team, which includes members from the Merrillville, Crown Point, Hobart, and Cedar Lake Fire Departments.

Officials are reminding the public that Lake Michigan can become dangerous in a matter of moments. Strong currents, rip currents, wave action, and rapidly changing weather can create life-threatening conditions for even experienced swimmers.