JUNE 3, 2026 — The Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for the recent break-in and theft of the Superior Entry South Breakwater Light.
The theft is believed to have occurred on or about May 13, 2026, at the privately owned Superior Entry Lighthouse located on Wisconsin Point, WI. Unknown suspects forced entry into the structure, severed the power supply, and stole the U.S. Coast Guard-owned navigational beacon housed inside.
Maritime aids to navigation function exactly like traffic lights and street signs on our roadways. The Superior Entry South Breakwater Light is a critical piece of safety infrastructure that guides vessels safely into and out of the harbor, especially during the night and in poor weather conditions.
This is not a simple property crime; it is a reckless act that immediately jeopardizes public safety. The removal of this navigational beacon creates a severe hazard that could lead to catastrophic vessel collisions or groundings. Such accidents pose a direct, life-threatening danger to commercial mariners and local recreational boaters. Furthermore, a major vessel incident in this area carries the risk of devastating environmental damage from fuel spills and threatens to disrupt the vital, daily movement of critical maritime commerce through the Great Lakes.
Stealing or tampering with a federal aid to navigation is a federal felony. CGIS is aggressively pursuing all leads to recover the stolen equipment and hold the responsible parties accountable.
CGIS is asking the local and maritime communities for their assistance. A $1,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to an arrest in this case.
If you observed any suspicious persons, vehicles, or vessels near the Superior Entry Lighthouse or Wisconsin Point on or about May 13, 2026, please contact investigators immediately.
To submit a tip:
Submit a tip online via the CGIS Tips portal: https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=878
Tips may remain anonymous.
Courtesy Story
U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes
-USCG-