Body of Knox High School Graduate Found

DNR law enforcementThe body of a missing former Knox High School graduate has been recovered.

Late last night, a boater and a member of the United States Coast Guard located 29-year-old Ron Wood, Jr.’s body approximately one mile off the shore of Lake Michigan near the far west border of Central Beach in Porter County, according to Indiana Conservation Officers.

Wood had been missing in the waters of Lake Michigan since May 31. Wood and several others were in a boat drifting off shore north of Mount Baldy when two members of the group jumped into Lake Michigan. They became separated from the boat. A few passengers jumped into the water to retrieve the swimmers, including Wood. The remaining passenger in the boat could not start the boat’s engine and called 911. A nearby boat came by and those aboard saw the swimmers struggling and were able to help. The United States Coast Guard arrived at the scene and rescued the others.

During the rescue, it was learned that Wood was still missing. A search continued for Wood, but he was not located until last night.

The Porter County Coroner’s Office and Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating his death.