An investigation continues into the deaths of two women after their care submerged in Cedar Lake near Carbondale. The Jackson County Coroner's office says the accident happened shortly after 3am on Saturday. Police in Carbondale were notified that a vehicle had driven off a boat launch area at the lake. Police say five people were in the care and three managed to escape. Authorities say a Union County dive team assisted with the revovery effort.
The deceased were identified as college students. They are 20-year old Marielle Carson of Chicago and 21-year old Latisha Ray of Carbondale. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. The coroner says a preliminary examination shows both women died as a result of drowning. Toxicology tests are pending.
