Crews search for missing man in Lake Mendota

The Dane County Sheriff Office is searching Lake Mendota near UW–Madison’s Memorial Union for a 22-year-old man who was last seen swimming in the area early this morning.

According to the Madison Fire Department, the incident was first reported by the 22-year-old man’s female companion at 2:46 a.m. She told authorities that the two were swimming when he went under the water. She attempted to assist him to shore, but after losing sight of him, returned to shore to call 911.

The search was initially conducted by MFD Lake Rescue divers and is now being conducted by the Dane County Sheriff. The missing swimmer became distressed near the sailboat field in an area of the lake that is about 12 feet deep.

If you are a student in need of counseling or crisis support as a result of this incident or any other situation, call University Health Services Counseling and Consultation Services at (608) 265-5600 or drop-in between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

If you need immediate assistance after hours or on weekends, please call the UHS Crisis Line at (608) 265-5600, option 9. For more information, click here.