5-year-old child pulled from Lake Michigan in Kenosha has died

KENOSHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Kenosha police say the 5-year-old child pulled from Lake Michigan Tuesday evening has died. 

Fire and police departments responded to Pennoyer Beach Park near Kenosha's Bandshell shortly before 6 p.m. for a report of an 8-year-old child struggling in the water. The child was pulled to safety and is said to be okay.

While the rescue operation was taking place, a 5-year-old child from the same group went missing. The US Coast Guard launched from its Kenosha station and Kenosha County dive teams were called. 

The search became focused on the area near the Pike Creek River outlet to Lake Michigan, where it was believed the child may have been playing.

Police say a citizen drone operator volunteered his personal drone, which located the 5-year-old about 50 feet from shore. 

The child was pulled from the water and taken to the hospital where they unfortunately died.

Kenosha police continue to investigate this death. 

In a statement, Kenosha Mayor John Antaramian said:

“I offer my sympathy and prayers to the family. This tragic death is a reminder of the ever-changing flow of the Pike River into Lake Michigan and the dangerous undercurrent of the lake. The City has applied for a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation as we continue to look for solutions. I encourage families that may need assistance in dealing with this tragedy or on how to talk to your kids about it, to contact the Mental Health Resource Center 262-764-8555."

CBS 58 spoke to long-time residents of the area who say there’s a history of safety concerns near this beach.

There have been drownings in the past and in response, the city installed new life ring kiosks near the harbor back in 2018.

There are also multiple warning signs posted near the opening of the beach of some say there should be more.

"I think if the signs were here near the parking lot where the majority of people park it would help reduce; if not eliminate some of these happenings,” said Brian Erwin.

Meanwhile, some families say they don’t think much more can be done.

“Most people just know Lake Michigan is dangerous,” said Amanda Sincock, who was visiting the beach both Tuesday and Wednesday with her boys.