CASSOPOLIS — Cass County Sheriff Joseph M. Underwood Jr. reports his office investigated a call at 5:33 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 4, indicating a male subject had fallen through the ice on Big Twin Lake in Wayne Township.

Investigation identified the victim as 5-year-old Gabriel Mahler of Twin Lakes, Dowagiac.

Gabriel wandered off toward the lake when he walked home from his neighbor’s house.

After attempting to locate Gabriel and noticing his tracks led to the water, his family called 911.

Responders  were able to locate Gabriel in a large open body of water in front of the residence.

Ice rescue personnel removed him from the water.

He was transported to Borgess-Lee Memorial Hospital, where they were unable to revive him.

He was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Cass County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by  Wayne Township Fire and Rescue, Sister Lakes Fire and Rescue and Pride Care ambulance.