Update: Drowning Victim Identified in Lake Mary Incident Near Lake Norden

Northeast Radio SD News – Lake Norden, SD – Following up from the initial story released earlier today, an adult male has died, and a juvenile is receiving medical treatment following a tragic drowning incident at Lake Mary on Sunday evening. Authorities have identified the deceased as 43-year-old Levi Griffin.

At approximately 7:36 p.m. on Sunday, June 21, 2026, emergency crews were dispatched to the area of Bluejay Street, approximately 0.7 miles west of 452nd Avenue, just east of Lake Norden. According to the Hamlin County Sheriff’s Office, a 911 report indicated that a family was fishing on the edge of Lake Mary when a juvenile fell into the water near the lake’s outlet. Griffin entered the water in an attempt to rescue the juvenile.

Both individuals were swept downstream by a strong current and were located approximately 50 to 75 yards south of the roadway. First responders entered the water and successfully reached both individuals.

The juvenile, who was conscious at the time of rescue, was transported by a personal vehicle to a local hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Griffin was found unresponsive. Emergency medical personnel with the Lake Norden Ambulance immediately initiated life-saving measures; however, despite their efforts, Griffin was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Agencies that responded to the scene included:

·         Hamlin County Sheriff’s Office

·         Lake Norden Police Department

·         South Dakota Highway Patrol

·         Lake Norden Fire Department

·         Lake Norden Ambulance