He had only been swimming a short distance from shore when everything went terribly wrong. Nineteen-year-old Micah Harris was spending a warm Saturday afternoon with friends at Lake Chapin in Berrien Springs, enjoying what was meant to be a carefree day. The group had decided to swim toward the bridge pylons, a popular spot for local swimmers. But partway across, witnesses said Micah began to struggle. Within moments, he disappeared beneath the surface and did not resurface.
Friends and bystanders immediately jumped into action, diving into the water to search for him while others frantically dialed 911. Emergency responders from the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, along with dive teams and fire crews, arrived just after 4 p.m. and began a coordinated search. Boats, sonar equipment, and divers were deployed as the tense hours dragged on, with family members and friends gathering along the shoreline in silent hope.
After nearly four hours of searching, at 7:57 p.m., divers located Micah’s body. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts by emergency personnel, he could not be revived. He was pronounced dead at the scene.Authorities believe the incident was a tragic drowning, with no signs of foul play. They reminded visitors of the dangers of swimming in open water, especially near bridge structures where currents can be unpredictable.
Micah’s death has left the Berrien Springs community heartbroken. Friends described him as energetic, kind, and full of promise—a young man who loved the outdoors and had a bright future ahead. Social media tributes have poured in, expressing shock and sorrow over the loss of a life taken too soon.As loved ones gather to remember Micah, they hold tight to his laughter and the light he brought to those around him, mourning a day that began in joy but ended in heartbreak.
