Wascott, WI – A tragic incident on Red Lake resulted in the death of a 71-year-old man from Barnes, WI, on Friday evening, July 12, 2024. Authorities were called to the scene in the area of 10428E Red Lake Drive at 7:22 PM.
The victim, Michael Andersen, had been out on Red Lake with his fishing partner, a 92-year-old man from Hayward, WI, for about three hours when the incident occurred. According to the fishing partner, Andersen suddenly yelled from the front of the boat and then fell into the water. Strong winds blew the boat away from Andersen, and by the time his partner managed to return to him, Andersen was face down and unconscious in the water. Despite his efforts, the partner was unable to get Andersen back into the boat but managed to hold onto him while shouting for help.
Individuals on the shore heard the calls for help and responded promptly. They were able to get Andersen onto their pontoon boat and initiated CPR. CPR efforts continued until first responders arrived and took over, but unfortunately, Andersen could not be revived.
Authorities suggest that Andersen may have suffered a medical event which caused him to fall from the boat. The incident remains under investigation.
Responding to the scene were the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Gordon-Wascott EMS and Volunteer Fire Departments, Gordon Public Safety Officer, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Mayo Ambulance, and the Douglas County Medical Examiner's Office.
Last Update: Jul 15, 2024 10:48 am CDT
