Neighbor Rescues Fisherman from Icy Tichigan Lake

A routine fishing trip nearly ended in tragedy this past Saturday on Tichigan Lake. A local man fell through the ice, sparking a swift rescue effort by neighbors and emergency responders in Racine County.

A Cry for Help

Michael Mossman, a resident of the lake for 20 years, was inside his home when he heard a faint noise.

"I was in the house, and I thought I could hear somebody yelling for help. But you know I had the TV on. But anyways, I shut the TV off, listened, and I heard someone yelling for help. So I then came outside because I couldn't see him," Mossman said.

Heroism on the Ice

After calling 911, Mossman grabbed a paddleboard and headed toward the victim. Neighbors captured the moment on video as the group used the board to pull the man from the freezing water.

"I proceeded out by him, and he was very coherent. And he says, I'll be OK. I'll be OK. And I just went out there towards him," Mossman recalled.

Crucial Lessons in Safety

The victim’s flotation gear played a vital role in his survival. Tichigan Fire Capt. Mike Borchardt praised the community spirit but warned that ice is unpredictable.

"That's one of the biggest things about Wisconsin and the people that live here, is that we are always willing to help other people," Borchardt said. "The first and most important thing to keep in mind is that no ice is ever 100% safe. So, you always have to plan for the worst-case scenario if you're going to go out on the ice."

Mossman, who has assisted in previous rescues, urged visitors to be cautious: "Stay off of this end, because it really changes by the day."

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