PORT SHELDON TWP., MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Jun. 16, 2026) – We are learning more about a tragic incident in the waters of Lake Michigan between Holland and Grand Haven over the weekend.
On Monday, the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office disclosed the names of two former Wheaton College football teammates who drowned off near the south pier of the Pigeon Lake Channel on Saturday afternoon. It appeared that, during a social gathering, several persons jumped into the water.
A short time later, 24-year-old Phillip Lochirco of Warrenville, Illinois, near Joliet, started struggling. Several other people jumped in, attempting to rescue him, including 26-year-old Jalen Shaffer of Ada. One of the two men was able to be pulled from the waters during this effort, while first responders recovered the other man. Attempts to resuscitate the men at the scene proved to be unsuccessful.
At this point, the incident is not considered to be suspicious in nature, but an investigation into the matter continues, and anyone with any information is asked to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office or Ottawa County Silent Observer (877-887-4536).
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