Police: Wisconsin workers find $500,000 excavator in Lake Michigan

OAK CREEK, Wis. - Police in suburban Milwaukee are investigating after a $500,000 construction vehicle was found in Lake Michigan.

Oak Creek police said Tuesday the 20-ton excavator appears to have been stolen and driven off a bluff into the lake. Oak Creek highway workers discovered the yellow vehicle partially submerged Monday during a bluff improvement project.

Police say the Komatsu earth mover fell about 60 feet and landed in the lake, where it was found with icicles hanging from its treads. They say the excavator was driven about 200 yards.

Police Chief John Edwards tells WISN-TV that whoever is responsible will face felony charges due to the destruction of the vehicle, diesel fuel in the lake and damage to the bluff.

Construction crews and the state Department of Natural Resources expect to move the excavator Wednesday.