08-01-2019 Police Reports

Police Reports By Annette Christie Coloma man perishes in water incident On July 28, 2019 at approximately 7:29 p.m. first responders were dispatched to a potential water rescue on the Paw Paw River in the 7100 block of Red Arrow Highway in Watervliet Township. Chad Whittington, a 42-year-old male from Coloma, was kayaking on the river with his wife. During the trip, the pair took a break to swim. While in the water, Whittington became distressed. Whittington’s wife was able to pull him partially to shore and contact 911. Upon arrival, first responders performed life-saving measures, however, they were unsuccessful. Whittington was pronounced deceased at the scene. An autopsy was scheduled for Monday, July 29, 2019 in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The Michigan State Police were assisted at the scene by the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, Coloma Township Police Department, Pokagon Tribal Police, Watervliet Fire Department, North Berrien Fire Rescue, and Pride Care Ambulance Service.

Van Buren County Sheriff hosting National Night Out The Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office will be hosting a National Night Out Open House to provide a family-friendly night to residents. The event will take place at the Lawrence Park Pavilion on August 6, 2019 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Officers will provide safety information while displaying some of the equipment they use to keep residents safe. Police officers, K-9 units, the Marine Patrol, the SWAT Team, reserve, mounted, and fire units will all be on hand as well as McGruff the Crime Dog.