It is with broken hearts that Great Lakes Experimental Arts confirms the death of a Lakes of Fire participant. Our condolences, and condolences on behalf of the entire Lakes of Fire community, go out to the family and friends impacted by this loss.

Early Sunday, July 20, 2025, Lakes of Fire’s emergency services department responded to a report of a medical emergency. The participant was taken to Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital. We were later informed by local emergency services that our friend had passed away. 

We know that this information is going to hit our community hard. If you need support on-site today, please seek out our Emerald Rangers at Ranger HQ. If you need support in the coming weeks, Rangers can be available for you at rangers@lakesoffire.org.

We hold the safety and security of our community and our volunteers as our highest priority. We are cooperating fully with local authorities as they investigate this incident. The Oceana County Sheriff’s Office investigates all deaths that occur in its jurisdiction. 

Out of respect for the family, we will not be providing additional details at this time.

Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones.