Law enforcement agencies across SE Michigan train for plane crash simulation

GROSSE ILE, Mich. – Law enforcement agencies from across Southeast Michigan spent Wednesday in Grosse Ile for a plane crash simulation training exercise.

The agencies used divers, sonar technology, and strike teams to prepare for something they hope will never happen.

Rescue crews were set up on the Grosse Ile Municipal Airport runway and then quickly suited up to get out on the water.

Sgt. Brian Burwell of Oakland County Sheriff’s marine unit set the scene.

“A small aircraft was having engine problems coming into the airport,” said Burwell. “The scenario is a citizen reported that a plane had entered the water.”

The Southeast Michigan Dive Group was then dispatched. With about 200 divers from 21 agencies as far north as Bay County, it’s the largest mutual aid dive group in the state and one of the largest in the country. It was formed in May 2022.

Only about 50 divers participated Wednesday (May 24). Some were tasked with rescuing passengers then the training transitioned.

“These counties are searching in areas where the plane is most likely located and eventually zero into the plane,” Burwell said. “We have a mock airplane out there that divers are going to go out, attach lift bags and bring to the surface and start the recovery process.”

Wayne County Sheriff Raphael Washington said the exercise was to save lives and ensure that it won’t be the first time the agencies worked together during that type of emergency.

“Multiple agencies coming together to save folks that are swimming, that are diving that are just enjoying themselves, but then accidents happen,” said Washington. “We don’t want to be caught off guard.”