News Release

Recreational SCUBA Diving Fatality at Isle Royale National Park

Date: July 26, 2024
Contact: Christopher M. Amidon, [phone]

HOUGHTON, MICH. – At about 1 pm, Thursday, July 25, a SCUBA diving fatality occurred in Lake Superior waters of Isle Royale National Park. Recreational divers on a private diving vessel quickly reported the incident after its occurrence.

Family of the deceased diver, John Nousaine, 70, from Superior, WI, have been notified.
 
The diving accident occurred on the stern section of the Emperor shipwreck. The depth of this area of the shipwreck ranges from 100 feet to 150 feet.  Emperor is a 525’ steel bulk freighter which sank in 1947, the most recent large-scale shipwreck in Isle Royale waters.
 
Keweenaw County Sheriff and Medical Examiner supported the incident along with National Park Service staff. The investigation into the fatality is ongoing.

www.nps.gov
 

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