20-Year-Old Tucker Vaughn Identified as Drowning Victim Near N. Whittaker Street Bridge in New Buffalo
NEW BUFFALO, MI — A peaceful Saturday evening turned to tragedy on June 28, 2025, when first responders were dispatched to a reported drowning near the N. Whittaker Street bridge. The victim has been identified as Tucker Vaughn, a 20-year-old resident of Niles, Michigan, whose life was tragically cut short in the waters of the Galien River.
A Sudden Emergency
At approximately 8:30 p.m., the New Buffalo City Police Department received multiple emergency calls reporting a person struggling in the water near the bridge that spans the Galien River, a popular area frequented by locals and visitors alike. Witnesses described a young man entering the water before appearing to go under and not resurfacing.
Emergency personnel, including police, fire crews, and marine units, responded immediately to the scene. Search efforts were initiated with urgency, including the deployment of water rescue teams and sonar equipment. After nearly an hour of coordinated searching, divers located Vaughn’s body in a deeper section of the river near the bridge structure.
Despite efforts by paramedics to revive him on the riverbank, Tucker Vaughn was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A Life Gone Too Soon
The death of Tucker Vaughn has sent shockwaves through the communities of both New Buffalo and Niles. Family and friends describe him as a bright, adventurous, and kind-hearted young man with a deep love for nature and the outdoors. A recent graduate of Niles High School, Vaughn was working part-time and planning to begin courses at Lake Michigan College in the fall.
“He had the most infectious laugh and a spirit that made everyone feel welcome,” said one family friend. “He loved being by the water—it’s heartbreaking that the same place he loved took him from us.”
Unclear Circumstances
While foul play is not suspected, authorities are continuing to investigate the exact circumstances that led to the drowning. Early reports suggest that Vaughn may have attempted to swim across the river or retrieve something from the water when he began to struggle. Officials noted that despite the calm appearance of the river, strong undercurrents and sudden drop-offs can create dangerous conditions, especially after recent rains that raised water levels.
Toxicology testing has been ordered as part of the standard procedure in accidental death investigations, and results are pending. Police have not released any additional information about whether alcohol or other substances may have played a role.
Community Response
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support for the Vaughn family. Vigils are being organized in both Niles and New Buffalo, and a memorial of flowers and candles has already begun to grow near the site of the incident on N. Whittaker Street.
City officials expressed their condolences in a statement Sunday morning, saying, “Our hearts are with the Vaughn family and the entire Niles community during this time of unimaginable loss. We urge all residents and visitors to exercise caution near open water and to be aware of river conditions.”
In memory of Tucker, loved ones are urging local leaders to consider additional signage or safety precautions in the area around the bridge to prevent future tragedies.
Remembering Tucker Vaughn
Tucker is survived by his parents, two younger siblings, and many extended family members and friends who will carry forward his memory. A celebration of life is being planned, and further details will be shared by the family in the coming days.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to a local youth outdoor education program—an effort to honor Tucker’s love for the outdoors and desire to make a positive impact on the world around him.