TOBYHANNA TOWNSHIP, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — What began as a relaxing day on the lake turned tragic on Sunday when a New Jersey man drowned while trying to rescue others after a kayaking accident in Monroe County.
Emergency crews were dispatched shortly before 12:30 p.m. to the 100 block of Sir Bradford Road in Tobyhanna Township, near Lake Kathryn, after receiving reports of a possible drowning. The initial call reported two people in the water; one managed to get out before first responders arrived.
Officials say the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department and the Tobyhanna Township Fire Department responded swiftly, supported by multiple dive teams. Despite the rapid deployment, the victim had already been underwater for several hours before his body was recovered from the lake’s bottom within minutes of the dive team’s arrival. He was not wearing a life jacket.
The Monroe County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 40-year-old Bibin Michael of New Jersey. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:35 p.m. following the water-related incident. An autopsy has been scheduled, with the official cause and manner of death still pending.
According to police, about 20 people were staying at a long-term rental home on Sir Bradford Road for the holiday weekend. Two of the guests had gone kayaking using equipment provided by the rental property. Both were wearing life vests.
Authorities explained that after spending about five to ten minutes on the lake, a sudden gust of wind flipped their kayak, throwing them into the water. As they clung to the overturned kayak and called for help, other family members rushed to assist.
Michael entered the water in an effort to rescue the pair but disappeared halfway between the shore and the kayak. He never resurfaced.
“One thing I have to preach is put on a life jacket. If he had a life jacket on, we wouldn’t be here today,” said Assistant Chief Edward Tutrone of the Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Department.
Neighbor Al Huff, a resident of the Camelot Forest community near the lake, described the chaotic scene as emergency responders arrived. “I saw a kayak and a couple boats, but I didn’t stick around. I was wondering what happened,” he said. “It’s terrible. We’ll never forget this here.”
Officials emphasized the dangers of cold water temperatures, noting that the lake was just 58 degrees at the time—cold enough to induce hypothermia quickly. “The water temperature is really low. Hypothermia sets in really quick,” Tutrone explained.
While this heartbreaking event occurred in Pennsylvania, it’s a sobering reminder for outdoor enthusiasts nationwide—including those in states like Wyoming, known for its lakes and outdoor adventures—that water safety and life jackets are essential. Tragedies like this can happen in an instant, even during a simple outing.
This remains a developing story. 28/22 News will provide updates as more information becomes available.
