On Saturday, Stearns County Sheriff’s deputies responded to Middle Spunk Lake in Avon for a report of a possible drowning.

The caller reported a male went missing in the swim area and they were unable to locate him in water. A Stearns County Sheriff’s Sergeant arrived first on scene and entered the water to try to locate the male. Additional deputies, Avon Police and Avon Fire and Rescue arrived to assist.

The Sheriff’s Office Water Patrol units and diver were deployed. The diver entered the water near the last known place the male was seen. A short time later, the diver returned to the surface with the missing male. The male was brought to shore and life-saving efforts were initiated.

Life Link airlifted the male to the St. Cloud Hospital where he remained in critical condition.

Mayo Ambulance, North Air and Minnesota DNR also assisted on scene.