SEBRING, FL — The Sebring Police Department has concluded an extensive investigation into a reported potential drowning on Lake Jackson, ultimately determining that no swimmers were missing.
According to officials, the incident began Sunday, April 26, 2026, at approximately 8:17 p.m., when dispatch received a report of two individuals possibly in distress in the water. Sebring Police Department, Sebring Fire Department, and Highlands County Fire Rescue responded to a residence on Lakeview Drive, where a homeowner provided the last known location of the individuals, who appeared to be diving or snorkeling.
Due to limited visibility after sunset, first responders were only able to briefly observe movement in the water before losing sight. Rescue Boat 15 was launched from the Veterans Beach Boat Ramp and searched the east side of Lake Jackson. Additional agencies, including the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office, Highlands County Emergency Management, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and Frostproof Volunteer Fire Department, assisted in a coordinated search effort lasting nearly 21 hours.
Search crews utilized sonar, underwater imaging, and structured search patterns but found no evidence of missing swimmers.
Detectives later identified an individual who contacted authorities after seeing news coverage, stating they had been swimming in the area and exited the water near the Elks Lodge when emergency crews arrived. Investigators confirmed this account through security footage, which showed the individual leaving the water at approximately 9:11 p.m.
Authorities determined the individual was alone, and no additional swimmers were unaccounted for. The Sebring Police Department has since suspended all search efforts.
SOURCE: SEBRING POLICE DEPARTMENT
