Bryan Stork Death, Obituary – Door County Sheriff’s Office Investigates After Man Found Unresponsive in Nicolet Bay at Peninsula State Park

On Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at approximately 3:35 p.m., the Door County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an unresponsive male discovered in Nicolet Bay at Peninsula State Park in the Town of Gibraltar, Wisconsin. According to officials, emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene after the individual was found in the water and was later pronounced deceased. The incident is being treated as a sudden death investigation while authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding what occurred.

Local reports confirm that first responders, including Door County emergency services and park authorities, arrived shortly after the initial call. The area around Nicolet Bay was temporarily monitored as rescue and recovery efforts were carried out. At this time, officials have not released further identifying details beyond confirming the death of an adult male, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The Door County Sheriff’s Office stated that the discovery was made in a popular recreational area of Peninsula State Park, which attracts thousands of visitors each summer for swimming, kayaking, and boating. Nicolet Bay, in particular, is known for its calm waters and family-friendly shoreline, but authorities regularly remind visitors that conditions can change quickly and caution is always advised when engaging in water activities.

As of now, investigators have not confirmed whether the death was accidental, medical, or otherwise. Standard procedure in cases like this includes an autopsy by the medical examiner’s office, as well as a review of witness statements, environmental conditions, and any available surveillance or park records. Officials have emphasized that no conclusions will be made until all forensic examinations are complete.

News of the incident has deeply affected the local community, particularly those familiar with Peninsula State Park as a place of recreation and natural beauty. The park, one of Wisconsin’s most visited state parks, is located along Green Bay and is widely known for its scenic bluffs, campgrounds, and shoreline access.

While some early online tributes have referred to the deceased as Bryan Stork, authorities have not officially released a confirmed identity under that name at the time of reporting. The Sheriff’s Office typically withholds names until family notification is completed, in line with standard protocol.

Officials are continuing to urge the public to respect the privacy of the family during this difficult time. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Door County Sheriff’s Office as the investigation continues.