A memorial for Jakob Bowerman is seen. (Photo courtesy of Bowerman Funeral Home)

MARINETTE — The Marinette County District Attorney’s Office has charged Tylor Robert Birch, 21, of Marinette, with second-degree reckless homicide in connection with the drowning death of 13-year-old Jakob Bowerman.

According to the criminal complaint, the incident took place on Aug. 20 at the Marinette pier. Initial statements given to police by Birch and a 16-year-old identified only as “P.C.” claimed that Bowerman jumped into the water voluntarily and began struggling. Both said they attempted to help but were unable to rescue him. A witness nearby called 911 after hearing cries for help.

However, investigators have stated that the story changed the following day. The report states that the 16-year-old told police that he and Birch had grabbed Bowerman by the hands and feet, swung him and threw him into the water, despite Bowerman saying he could not swim. The criminal complaint says Birch later gave differing accounts, at one point saying he turned away and only heard a splash, and at another acknowledging that Bowerman may have been pushed.

Bowerman was pulled from the water by first responders and transported to the hospital. He died on Aug. 23 and his autopsy listed the cause of death as drowning.

The criminal complaint states that Birch was taken into custody on Aug. 21. The 16-year-old was also detained. Birch was scheduled to appear in Marinette County Court on Thursday.