Search for missing swimmer in Evanston was a ‘false alarm’: fire officials – NBC Chicago

TO UPDATE:

Evanston Fire Department officials said Monday evening that the report of a missing swimmer in Lake Michigan was a “false alarm,” effectively bringing search efforts to a standstill.

As of 6:25 p.m., no further information was available.

EARLIER:

All beaches in the city of Evanston along the Lake Michigan shore were abruptly closed Monday afternoon as the search for a missing swimmer was still ongoing, authorities said.

In a Facebook post at 4:26 p.m., the city said there was a heavy fire and police presence at Lee, Dempster and Church Street beaches conducting an unspecified “investigation.” In an update about 15 minutes later, Evanston police said emergency crews had been called about a swimmer submerged in the water at Greenwood Street Beach.

According to authorities, one person went underwater and did not resurface. Since Monday afternoon, several boats, rescue divers and a Chicago Fire Department helicopter have been searching for the missing person.

Residents have been asked to avoid the boat ramp on Church Street as it is used as a staging area for rescue equipment.

All beaches have been closed for the time being.

Check back later for updates on this breaking story.