18-year-old nature photographer found dead in lake after disappearing in state park

An 18-year-old high school student who disappeared from an Indiana state park where he often photographed wildlife has been found dead in a lake, officials said.

Carson Hughes of Osgood, Indiana, went missing from Versailles State Park on Friday, March 15, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. His vehicle was found unlocked with the keys inside, and his kayak was found on the water nearby.

According to Indiana Thermal Recovery, Hughes’ camera was on a tripod next to a pond.

“Something is wrong,” the group said at the time.

The search for Hughes ended on Sunday, March 17, when his body was recovered from Versailles Lake, officials said. It was located by divers using sonar at a depth of six feet.

According to the Ministry of Natural Resources, the cause of death is still pending the results of the autopsy.

Hughes, who has gained a large following on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok with his photography, often shared his work with his followers.

The Bright Fire Department described Hughes as “an amazing young man.”

Hughes attended Jac-Cen-Del High School and planned to enroll at Purdue University next year, according to The 812.

Osgood is located about 70 miles southeast of Indianapolis.

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