Marinette, Wisconsin – Prosecutors in Marinette County announced that a 16-year-old involved in the drowning of a boy with autism will be charged as an adult, months after the tragedy stunned the community and led to ongoing legal proceedings.
Jakob Bowerman, 13, died on August 23 after he was allegedly thrown off the Government Pier in Marinette. Prosecutors said that Bowerman, who could not swim, was grabbed by two individuals and swung into the choppy water, leading to his death days later at a nearby hospital.
Incident Overview
According to the criminal complaint, 16-year-old Peyton Carnot and 21-year-old Tylor Birch allegedly grabbed Bowerman by his hands and feet and threw him into the water on August 20. Early statements given to investigators claimed all three had voluntarily jumped from the pier together. However, police say that version of events fell apart as the investigation continued.
The complaint stated that “while they were in the air, leaping from the break wall is when Bowerman allegedly told them that he could not swim.” Both suspects originally insisted they tried to help him reach land, with Carnot saying he climbed out to call 911.
Police Findings and Revised Statements
Detectives later determined that the story Birch and Carnot initially provided was not accurate. The complaint said that Carnot eventually admitted he and Birch “had actually thrown the victim into the water after the victim has expressed he didn’t want to go in.”
Prosecutors noted that water conditions on the day of the incident were poor, describing the lake as “choppy. Not good swimming weather at all.” After hearing Bowerman say he could not swim, both suspects reportedly entered the water again to try to assist him but were unable to save him.
Bowerman was eventually pulled from the water and transported to a hospital. An autopsy determined the official cause of death as drowning.
Family Response
Bowerman’s mother, Taylor Singer, told investigators and local media that her son had only just met Carnot and did not know Birch at all. The case has raised questions in the community about teen behavior, accountability, and how vulnerable young people can quickly become victims in dangerous situations.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Both Birch and Carnot were arrested shortly after the incident. Birch was charged with second-degree reckless homicide and remains in custody at the Marinette County Jail. He is scheduled for a competency hearing on December 18.
Carnot faces the same charge and is being held at Washington County Juvenile Detention. Prosecutors confirmed he will be charged as an adult, and his bond has been set at $100,000. His arraignment is scheduled for December 17.
Moving Forward
As the case continues through the courts, Marinette officials say they hope the proceedings will provide answers for Bowerman’s family and bring clarity to the events that led to the heartbreaking loss of the 13-year-old.
Share Your Thoughts
Have you seen similar incidents in your community, or do you have insights on youth safety near water? Share your experiences or perspectives in the comments.
