MUNISING, Mich. (WZMQ) – The body of the ice climber who fell near the Miners Castle area of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore has been recovered. The fallen climber was identified as 31-year-old James Bake of Gaylord, Michigan.
On Sunday, February 12th, weather and wave conditions on Lake Superior cleared enough to facilitate a focused search of the area using an unmanned aerial vehicle operated by an Alger County Sheriff’s Department pilot.
Bake’s body was located approximately 30 yards offshore, and the recovery operation concluded late Sunday evening.
The Michigan State Police Dive Team conducted the recovery with the U.S. Coast Guard proving and Ice Rescue Team from Station Marquette to help ensure the safety of the recovery team members.
“Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore staff are saddened by this loss,” stated Superintendent David Horne, “and our entire community extends sincere condolences to Mr. Bake’s family and friends.”
Participating agency support during this search included the Alger County Sheriff’s Department, U.S. Coast Guard, Superior High Angle Professionals (SHARP) rope rescue team, and the National Park Service.
