MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – An off-duty lifeguard and EMT rescued two children from nearly drowning in Lake Michigan Tuesday evening.

Devin Newton, off-duty Superior Ambulance EMT, and Myles Wright, and off-duty lifeguard, were near the Michigan City pier when they heard children screaming.

According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the men ran to help the two young girls who struggled in extremely rough water.

Newton threw a life ring to the girls but was defeated by the wind. Wright climbed off of the pier, got into the water, and reached the ring to the girls.

The children were returned to their families and officials are still working to identify the victims. The families and the victims left the scene before Conservation officers arrived.

Newton and Wright said the girls were around 12-years-old and Illinois residents.

There is little information on how long the girls were in the water. The swim area at Washington Park was closed due to the dangers of the waves.

Indiana Conservation Officers commend lifesaving efforts of Newton and Wright. The training of the men likely prevented two drownings.

If anyone has information on the individuals that were in the water, contact the Indiana Conservation Officers at (812) 837-9536.