Harrison Township, Michigan – A boating accident on Lake St. Clair near MacRay Harbor in Harrison Township, Michigan, left three people dead after two boats collided Wednesday night, October 7, 2026. The fatal crash is being investigated by the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said the collision occurred at approximately 8 p.m. in the waters near MacRay Harbor. A passenger from one of the vessels survived by swimming to shore, where a resident contacted 911. The Sheriff’s Office received the emergency call at about 10:48 p.m. and dispatched Marine Division deputies and its Underwater Search and Rescue Team.
Three People Killed in Lake St. Clair Crash
The Sheriff’s Office identified the victims as Craig Miller, 52, of Macomb Township; Heidi Baldwin, 56, of St. Clair Shores; and Gerald Grzadzinski, 64, of Chesterfield Township.
Investigators said the three were aboard a 1981 23-foot Formula Thunderbird that capsized following the collision. Search teams recovered the victims from the submerged vessel at approximately 5 a.m. Thursday. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
The other vessel was identified as a 1991 28-foot Sea Ray Sundancer. Its 40-year-old operator from Roseville is cooperating with investigators. Several other people, including a child, were aboard that boat, according to authorities.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Officials have not released a determination about what caused the collision. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the movements of both vessels before the impact.
The incident highlights the risks associated with nighttime boating, when visibility can change significantly. Boating safety experts emphasize the importance of proper navigation equipment, life jackets and reliable communication devices.
St. Clair County Connection
Although Lake St. Clair borders St. Clair County, this particular fatal crash occurred near MacRay Harbor in Harrison Township, Macomb County. St. Clair County’s Marine Division separately patrols Lake St. Clair and other waterways in its jurisdiction and conducts boating safety, enforcement and search-and-rescue operations.
Authorities have not announced any criminal charges in connection with the October 7 crash as the investigation continues.