(St. Joseph County, IN) - First responders near Lydick were relieved, but a little chagrined, when a water rescue turned out to be a false alarm.

On Tuesday morning members of the St. Joseph County Fire Territory responded to Chain Lake for a report of a watercraft in distress and possibly sinking.

After a thorough check, no occupants were found onboard, and it was determined that the boat had been intentionally stripped and abandoned in the middle of the lake—an apparent attempt to dispose of an old watercraft.

County Police Department are investigating who might be responsible for the less-than-prudent boat disposal.

Authorities are reminding the public that dumping watercraft or any debris in public waterways is not only dangerous but also illegal.