Search for missing plane underway in Lake Michigan

BENZIE COUNTY, Mich. (WPBN/WGTU) -- A search is underway after a plane went missing in Benzie County.

The Benzie County Sheriff said it went missing between 8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Sunday about four miles west of Frankfort.

The sheriff said two people were on board of the single-engine plane.

According to the United States Coast Guard, a report came in from the Minneapolis center regarding a single-engine Beechcraft 35 Bonanza experiencing engine problems.

Records indicate the two people inside the plane were on their way from Ontonagon to Monroe.

Officials said the plane involved is registered to Evergreen Exploration.

Crews are still searching for the plane and passengers.

Helicopter crews from Air Station Detroit and Air Station Traverse City are helping in the search effort near Frankfort.

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UPDATE (12:35 p.m.):

According to the Sheriff, they believe the plane crashed about four and a half miles off shore in an area of water that is about 600 feet deep.

Boats have been searching the area.

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UPDATE (6:00 p.m.):

The Benzie County Sheriff says Michigan State Police have a vehicle that can drop down to 600 feet, which is the depth they believe the plane may be at in Lake Michigan.

The sheriff says crews will be out on the lake Tuesday morning.