Bodies of 2 Missing Snowmobilers Recovered After Breaking Through Icy Lake

Bodies of 2 Missing Snowmobilers Recovered After Breaking Through Icy Lake

The bodies of two missing snowmobilers have been recovered after they tragically broke through the ice on a frozen lake. The victims, identified as Daniel Meyers, 65, and Jason Aemmer, 49, were found under six feet of ice on Round Lake in Sheridan Township, Mich., on Monday, December 15th.

According to reports from the Mason County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), the distressing incident unfolded on Sunday, December 14th, when authorities were alerted that the two snowmobilers were missing. Search operations commenced immediately, with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office initially scouring Lake County trails before expanding the search to eastern Mason County around 4:30 AM.

Due to challenging conditions such as darkness and heavy snowfall, a thorough check of the lake from shore was not feasible. It wasn’t until first light that a snowmobile helmet was spotted several hundred yards offshore on the ice. Subsequently, a drone was deployed above the lake, revealing a hole in the ice with a helmet visible inside.

Efforts to reach the area were hindered by the unstable ice conditions, making it impossible for rescuers to access the victims. Teams from the MCSO Dive team, Michigan State Police (MSP) Dive Services Team, and Manistee County Sheriff’s Office all collaborated in the search operation, eventually locating the two men’s bodies under the ice.

Daniel Meyers, one of the victims, had a significant impact in his community as the Director of Music at Muskegon Community College for 15 years. Leading various musical ensembles, including the MCC Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, and Jayhawk Sound Pep Band, Meyers was cherished for his enthusiasm for music and teaching.

The Muskegon Community College President, Dr. John Semon, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Meyers, acknowledging his profound influence on students and the MCC community. Meyers leaves behind his wife, Melissa, and their three daughters, as confirmed by Mason County Press.

This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the risks associated with winter activities on frozen bodies of water. The recovery efforts undertaken by the dedicated search teams highlight the courage and commitment of emergency responders in the face of challenging conditions.

As communities come to terms with the loss of these two individuals, support and condolences have been pouring in from across the region. The impact of this incident resonates deeply with those who knew Meyers and Aemmer, underscoring the importance of safety precautions when engaging in winter sports.

The recovery of the snowmobilers’ bodies serves as a somber conclusion to the search operation while also shedding light on the dangers of navigating icy lakes during the winter months. The bravery and determination displayed by the rescue teams in recovering the victims in treacherous conditions are commendable, reflecting their unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the community.