A man from New Jersey tragically lost his life during a water-related emergency in Tobyhanna Township on Sunday afternoon.
Bibin Michael, aged 40, was declared deceased at the scene at approximately 3:35 p.m., as confirmed by the Monroe County Coroner’s Office.
Authorities from the Pocono Mountain Regional Police responded to a call reporting individuals in distress in the water on the 130 block of Sir Bradford Road.
Initial reports indicated that one person was already in the water when the police arrived.
It has been reported that around 20 individuals were residing at a long-term rental property on Sir Bradford Road. Two adults had taken a kayak, provided by the rental, out onto the lake.
Witnesses noted that both kayak riders were equipped with life jackets and had been on the water for approximately five to ten minutes when an unexpected gust of wind caused their kayak to capsize, resulting in their fall into the lake. As friends and family observed the unfolding situation, the two individuals attempted to swim back to shore.
In a courageous effort to assist them, Bibin Michael entered the water but submerged approximately halfway between the shore and the overturned kayak. Eyewitness accounts indicate that he did not resurface.
Rescue teams, including dive units, were promptly deployed. A police officer with diving expertise from PMPRD was able to recover Mr. Michael’s body from the water.
Upon arrival, the coroner’s office confirmed Mr. Michael’s death at the scene. An autopsy is forthcoming, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause and manner of death.
The Pocono Mountain Regional Police are actively investigating this tragic incident.
