Man dies on PM 41

LUDINGTON – A 37-year-old Pentwater man died on the PM 41 barge today while on Lake Michigan. Michigan State Police Hart Post is investigating the man’s death. It apparently occurred while the barge – being pushed by the tug Undaunted, based out of Ludington – was en-route between Muskegon and Charlevoix. The barge was hauling ash.

According to a release from the state police, the incident appears to have been an industrial accident.

Investigation at the scene, along with witness statements, indicated the victim was conducting mechanical maintenance on a conveyor system when he became entangled in the machine.

The captain of the Undaunted notified the U.S. Coast Guard and law enforcement. The tug was directed to its home port of Ludington.

The initial troopers on the scene conducted interviews and crime scene investigation on board the barge and vessel. Troopers on scene were assisted by Ludington Police Department, Ludington Fire Department, victim services units from Mason and Oceana counties and the Mason County Medical Examiner’s Office.