Sheriff’s office investigates possible drowning at Hillsdale Lake campground
The Miami County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a possible drowning after a man was pronounced dead at Hillsdale Lake Saturday.
Deputies were dispatched after a 911 call for a water rescue just after 9 a.m. May 9 at the Crappie Grove Campground on Hillsdale Lake, according to a news release.
When emergency personnel arrived, they found a man lying on his back while people administered CPR. Paramedics took over life-saving efforts, but the man was ultimately pronounced dead at the scene, the sheriff’s office said.
The sheriff’s office identified the man who died as James D. Richardson, 82, of Louisburg Kansas.
Early investigation findings indicate Richardson was fishing alone when, for an unknown reason, he fell into the water and struggled to swim, according to the news release.
A bystander heard Richardson calling for help and tried to assist him, but due to trees and terrain in the area, it was difficult to reach him, the news release said.
A second bystander helped remove Richardson from the water and took him to a dock where they administered CPR, the sheriff’s office said.
An autopsy is pending to determine Richardson’s exact cause of death.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Richardson’s family and friends during this tragic event,” the Miami County Sheriff’s Office said in the news release.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Miami County Sheriff’s Office directly at 913-294-3232 or through the TIPS Hotline at 816-476-8477.
