71-Year-Old Barnes Man Drowns in Red Lake

WASCOTT, WI. — A 71-year-old Barnes man died after falling off a boat into Red Lake on Friday, July 12, 2024.

The call for help came in around 7:22 pm. According to a press release, authorities responded to the scene at 10428E Red Lake Drive.

The victim, identified as Michael Andersen of Barnes, WI, was fishing with a 92-year-old Hayward man when he fell into the water.

The 92-year-old man was unable to reach the victim, who was reportedly face down and unconscious, due to wind blowing the boat away.

A nearby group heard the Hayward man yelling for help and responded to assist. They were able to get Andersen onto their pontoon boat where CPR was conducted, but he was unable to be revived.

Authorities say the victim may have suffered a medical event which led to the fall. The matter remains under investigation.