KOSCIUSKO — The operator of the ORV was released with minor injuries and is now recovering at home. The passenger of the ORV who was seriously injured in the accident succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead on Monday, Nov. 20, by the Allen County Coroner’s Office.

No autopsy will be performed, and the cause of death was determined to be drowning.

The accident occurred at approximately 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, near 6005 W. Shilling Road, Mentone.

One male juvenile, 15, Fort Wayne, was operating an ORV on private property with a second male juvenile, 15, Fort Wayne, riding passenger beside him. The operator lost control of the ORV near a private pond embankment, and the ORV rolled over, entered the pond and submerged. Both occupants were ejected from the ORV into the pond. The property owner, Cary Groninger, 50, Mentone, contacted 911 after being notified by his son of the accident.

The operator of the ORV was able to swim to safety and appeared to be suffering from minor injuries; however, the passenger was believed to be still submerged in the pond. Cary Groninger then entered the pond and searched the immediate area near where the ORV was submerged, locating the passenger. Cary Groninger brought the passenger to shore and lifesaving aid was administered by medics. Neither victim was wearing a helmet, although safety harnesses appeared to have been utilized.

Indiana Conservation Officers were assisted by Kosciusko County Sheriff Department, Burket Fire Department, Lutheran EMS and Mentone EMS.