Body of missing camper found in park's lagoon

7/24/2001

MONROE - The body of a 29-year-old Melvindale, Mich., man was recovered Sunday night from a lagoon in Sterling State Park, about 20 hours after he had been reported missing by a friend camping with him at the park, Monroe County sheriff's deputies said.

Michael Hodgson was last seen about 2 a.m. Saturday walking along a beach area. When he failed to return to his campsite, the victim's friend began to search for him, but was unsuccessful. He contacted local authorities about 10:15 p.m. Saturday.

Mr. Hodgson's body was found by sheriff's office divers about 6:30 p.m. Sunday in one of the park's lagoons.

Monroe County Medical Examiner Dr. Carl Schmidt said last night that results of the autopsy are pending.