People form human chains on shore of Lake Michigan to rescue swimmers caught in rough water

At least two people drown despite best efforts of public and police

Beachgoers formed a series of human chains on the shore of Lake Michigan in an attempt to rescue swimmers caught in rough waves.

Despite the best efforts of police and members of the public, at least two people drowned at the Grand Haven State Park, Michigan, on Sunday, leading to the closure of the beach.

The first incident occurred shortly after midday, when a man was reported struggling in the water. Bystanders formed a human chain to search for David Knaffle, but the 64-year-old was found unresponsive at 12.17pm. He later died, the Grand Haven department of public safety reported.

Later that afternoon, officers responded to “multiple” swimmers struggling in the water, with bystanders pulling five swimmers to safety, the department said in a statement.

More human chains were formed in an attempt to find a man reported to be underwater. Though the 20-year-old was found, he was pronounced dead after being taken to hospital.

Three other swimmers were receiving treatment, the public safety department said, with one in a serious condition.

“Probably 30-40 people formed the chain, but had to split into two sections because it was getting too deep,” Luke Nordlund, a member of the public who attempted to help, told the Grand Haven Tribune.

He continued: “I'm 6ft 7in and over 250 pounds, and I almost got knocked over myself.”