Crime & Safety

Tinley Park Teen Dies Despite Lake Michigan Rescue Efforts

Matthew Kocher, 15, was rescued after struggling in the waters of Lake Michigan near New Buffalo, Mich. Saturday afternoon. He died Saturday evening.

A 15-year-old boy from Tinley Park died Saturday night, after being pulled from rough waters of Lake Michigan near New Buffalo, Mich., the Chicago Tribune reports.

Lifeguards pulled Matthew Kocher, of the 17500 block of Mulberry Avenue, from the water around 3:30 p.m Saturday, according to the report. Lifeguards performed CPR, then transported the teen to Franciscan St. Anthony Health in Michigan City. He was then flown to Chicago's Comer Children's Hospital. 

He was pronounced dead at 8:21 p.m.

Flags signaling dangerous water conditions and the potential for strong waves and rip currents had been displayed at the beach throughout the day, officials told Tribune reporters. 

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