Lake Michigan Forensic Search

On a cold night in the  1980s, a small aircraft crashed into southern Lake Michigan while attempting to fly across in marginal weather.  Of the four persons on board, only one was ever found and returned to his family for a proper burial.  The rest, including his wife and another couple, remain missing all these years later.

Details of the case reveal a reasonable search area within the limits of experienced divers and the technology- such as sidescan sonar and remotely operated vehicles- is readily available to finally close this case.  A few days of searching could be all that is required for a dedicated team of qualified volunteers to find the aircraft and its occupants.

Kolibri Forensics, a startup organization working towards filing for nonprofit status,  seeks to locate and return these missing to their families.  Our team of divers, forensic specialists, an archaeologist and researchers has the skill set to complete this mission. 

We have spoken with representatives of one of the two families involved and we have their support.  Likewise, after discussions with the local authorities, an agreement has been reached to permit the search.  The only remaining barrier is the cost of bringing needed personnel and equipment to the area for the search and recovery.

If you can spare a few dollars towards the project we can make that happen. No matter how much or how little, all proceeds goes towards bringing the missing home. These were good, honest, hard working people who deserve to be returned to their families. If it were you or your loved ones, you would want someone to look for and return them.  

Even if it is only ten dollars from each of our followers on  Facebook and Twitter, that is over 70% of our goal Please show your compassion for your fellow man by giving towards the recovery the missing. Please help us bring them home this summer.

Any funds in addition to our goal will be used to fund similar missions in the future and/or purchase equipment and training to further expand our capabilities.

Note: Exact details of the case are being withheld to protect the suspected crash site from potential looting.  We apologize for being intentionally vague but it is necessary out of respect for the victims and their families.  Thank you for understanding. 

#LakeMichiganSearch

Photo provided courtesy of Distant Thunder Aviation Photography.