CHICAGO — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded along Chicago’s South Side lakefront this weekend as authorities confirmed the recovery of three bodies — a woman and two young children — from Lake Michigan.
According to the Chicago Police Department (CPD) and Chicago Fire Department (CFD), the grim discovery began just before 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, when first responders were dispatched to the 5700 block of South DuSable Lake Shore Drive, near 59th Street Beach, after receiving reports of a child in the water.
Infant Discovered First
Divers quickly entered the lake and recovered the body of a baby girl, believed to be about one year old. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, authorities confirmed she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mother and Older Child Found Nearby
Later that day, search teams continued scouring the water near the 67th Street Beach. It was there that the body of an adult woman was located. While officials have not publicly released her name, investigators believe she may have been the mother of the two children.
Shortly afterward, divers made another devastating discovery: the body of a 6-year-old boy, believed to be the older sibling of the infant.
All three victims were recovered within close proximity to one another along the South Side shoreline.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a full death investigation, though the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy remain unclear. Police have not confirmed whether foul play is suspected.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office is working with CPD detectives to positively identify the victims. Their names have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
Community in Shock
The shocking discoveries have left many Chicago residents stunned and saddened. Beaches along the South Side are popular destinations for families, particularly on weekends, and news of a mother and two children dying in the same waters has cast a heavy pall over the community.
What’s Next
Investigators continue to piece together the victims’ final moments as they await autopsy results. Officials said more information may be released in the coming days as they work to determine how and why this tragedy occurred.
For now, three lives — a mother and her two children — have been lost in the waters of Lake Michigan, leaving behind unanswered questions and a grieving city.
Leave a Reply