Teen Drowns While Swimming At State Recreation Park In Lapeer County

FLINT (WWJ) - A 17-year-old Flint boy -- looking to cool off while swimming with a friend -- accidentally drowns at a state recreation area in Lapeer County Thursday afternoon.

Witnesses say Troy Paxton was trying to cross Lake Minnewanna in the Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area when he experienced trouble.

He was swimming with his 18-year-old friend who was from Burton says Sgt. Jason Parks with the Lapeer County Sheriff's Department.

"Half way across the water, Paxton informed his friend he is experiencing physical exhaustion, his friend actually tries to keep him afloat," said Parks. "Unfortuately, during that time period Paxton went missing in the water - Lapeer County 911 was contacted -- after approximately two hours of searching -- around 6:15 they end up recovering Paxton."

Parks said it appears both teens were swimming outside of a safety area.