Lawrence Park Police and the office of the Erie County Coroner expect to rule a death in the cold waters of Lake Erie Wednesday morning a case of suicide.

Around 10:30 a.m., both Lawrence Park Police and GE Police were notified that a person inappropriately dressed for the weather had jumped over a fence onto private property near the GE picnic grounds and the Lawrence Park Fishing Club.  The area is along the Lawrence Park Golf Club off East Lake Road.

Lawrence Park Police Chief John Morell was first on the scene, and spotted the victim in the water below.  The drop from the GE property to the water below is estimated at about 50 to 60 feet.

The Lawrence Park Water Rescue team was called, but not needed.  Chief Morell entered the water and quickly pulled the man out.  The victim was deceased at the scene of the incident.  The police chief suffered cold exposure, but did not require hospital treatment.

The victim is identified as a 40-year-old man from Harborcreek.  He was wearing only a tee shirt and shorts.

Deputy Erie County Coroner John Maloney is investigating.  He is conferring with police to determine whether the death is an accident or a suicide, and if the victim died as a result of the fall or drowning.

 

This is an early report. Stay with Erie News Now for more information as it becomes available.