David Michael VanZandt, a 70-year-old underwater explorer who founded a group dedicated to searching for shipwrecks in the Great Lakes, was found dead on Saturday, June 1, 2024. He was diving to a newly discovered shipwreck in Lake Erie, authorities said.
VanZandt, an experienced diver, was exploring the wreck with a group when he failed to resurface. The U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Division launched a search and rescue operation after receiving a distress call. Divers from local fire departments assisted in the search effort.
The Lake County dive team arrived around 6:30 p.m. and found that David was still tethered to the anchor line of the boat; within an hour they were able to find him, but he was not alive.
VanZandt’s body was recovered by rescue divers in about 66 feet of water off the coast of Lorain, Ohio, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
“This was a very skilled diver (who) used all the security precautions. So, it seems that there was a medical emergency involved in this,” said Sheriff Leonbruno.
VanZandt founded Cleveland Underwater Explorers over a decade ago and has been instrumental in locating and documenting numerous historic wrecks in Lake Erie. The group uses sonar and underwater imaging technology to map out potential wreck sites before diving to identify and study them.
“Each shipwreck is a time capsule that provides a glimpse into our region’s past,” VanZandt said in a 2019 interview with the Cleveland Plain Dealer.” By studying these wrecks, we can better understand the triumphs and tragedies that shaped the history of the Great Lakes.”
VanZandt was “diving on a newly found shipwreck” during his first diving trip of the year when he “failed to return to the boat,” according to a statement from the non-profit organization.
“Our condolences to his wife and family,” Cleveland Underwater Explorers said.
Authorities have not released details about the specific wreck VanZandt was diving to on Saturday or what may have caused his death. The Coast Guard is investigating the incident.
In addition to his work with Cleveland Underwater Explorers, VanZandt was a retired engineer and U.S. Navy veteran. He is survived by his wife Karen and two adult children. Memorial service arrangements are pending.