Manistique man’s body recovered after missing person search

A 39-year-old man from Manistique was found dead in Lake Michigan late Wednesday night after a multi-day search by Michigan State Police divers, according to an MSP press release.

The body was recovered near the Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse on the evening of May 27, 2026.

The search begins Tuesday

Troopers from the MSP Manistique Outpost received a missing person report on Tuesday, May 26. A caller requested that MSP open an investigation for the man, whose name has not been released to the public.

"There were no apparent signs of suspicious circumstances, and it was unclear where the 39-year-old man may have gone or why he was missing. Troopers attempted to locate the subject, however, were initially unsuccessful," the MSP said in a statement.

Police closed the lighthouse and surrounding areas on the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Schoolcraft County as the search began.

Items found Wednesday, body recovered that night

On Wednesday, May 27, troopers searched the area around the lighthouse and a nearby park. They located personal items confirmed to have belonged to the missing man.

The MSP Marine Services Team was called in to search the water. Divers worked late into the night before locating the man’s body in the lake.

His next of kin has been notified, according to MSP.

Investigation continues

Authorities said the preliminary investigation shows no signs of foul play, but the case remains open.

"The preliminary investigation indicates no signs of foul play, however, the investigation is ongoing," MSP said.

The lighthouse and park areas have since been reopened to the public, according to reporting from Radio Results Network.

Multiple agencies assisted in the search

The operation involved several law enforcement units:

  • MSP Manistique troopers
  • MSP Marine Services Team
  • Manistique Public Safety Department
  • MSP Eighth District Detective Bureau
  • MSP Negaunee Regional Communications Center

The man’s identity has not been publicly released as of Thursday afternoon, May 28.