New Buffalo, MI – On the evening of Saturday, June 28, 2025, at approximately 8:30 p.m., the New Buffalo City Police Department responded to a distress call regarding a potential drowning near the N. Whittaker Street bridge, which spans the Galien River. Several witnesses had contacted emergency services after observing a male subject jump from the bridge into the river.
According to multiple accounts, the individual entered the water and briefly surfaced before submerging and disappearing from view.
Upon receiving the call, the New Buffalo City Police, along with several partner agencies, mobilized immediately and arrived on scene within minutes. Responding units included the New Buffalo Township Fire Department, Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, Berrien County Dive Team, and other emergency services personnel. A coordinated and intensive search and rescue operation was launched, with personnel deploying boats, drones, and sonar equipment to locate the missing individual. The banks of the river and surrounding areas were also combed for any signs of the subject.
Despite the swift response and tireless efforts of emergency crews, the search concluded in tragedy. The Berrien County Dive Team located and recovered the body of the individual from the river after an extensive underwater search. He was later identified as Tucker Vaughn, a 20-year-old resident of Niles, Michigan.
Following the recovery, Mr. Vaughn’s body was turned over to the Berrien County Medical Examiner’s Office for further investigation and to determine the exact cause of death. As of this release, foul play is not suspected, and the incident appears to have been an intentional jump into the river. However, authorities will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.
The New Buffalo City Police Department would like to extend its deepest appreciation to all responding agencies for their professionalism, teamwork, and rapid mobilization during this heartbreaking incident. The department also thanks the bystanders and community members who remained on scene, provided eyewitness accounts, and assisted however they could during the emergency.
Chief [Insert Chief’s Name] of the New Buffalo City Police Department stated:
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the loss of a young life. This is a devastating event for the family of Tucker Vaughn, for the witnesses who were present, and for the entire New Buffalo community. We are incredibly grateful for the swift and coordinated response from all our partner agencies, and we will continue to support the investigation and the family in any way we can.”
This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the inherent dangers of rivers and open water, especially near bridges and unpredictable currents. The Galien River, while a scenic and peaceful part of the New Buffalo area, can pose risks not always visible to the eye, particularly in areas where jumping from elevated structures is both unsafe and unlawful.
As the community processes this loss, mental health support and counseling services are being made available to those affected. The City of New Buffalo urges residents to take care of themselves and others during this difficult time and to reach out for support if needed.
To the family and friends of Tucker Vaughn, the New Buffalo City Police Department, and the entire emergency response team, send their most heartfelt condolences. We share in your grief and extend our thoughts and prayers as you navigate this unimaginable loss.