The state of Michigan has decided to relinquish ownership of a rare artifact linked to the renowned Edmund Fitzgerald shipwreck. This decision comes shortly after the state acquired the artifact through an unrelated lawsuit settlement. Larry Orr, 77, will receive one of the ship’s life rings back as part of a settlement agreement regarding a lawsuit concerning police misconduct, for which the state will pay $600,000 US.
In a reminiscence of 1975, Orr recalled discovering the life ring and a fragment of a lifeboat on the shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula just eight days after the tragic sinking of the Fitzgerald in Lake Superior, resulting in the loss of all 29 crew members. Reflecting on the eerie experience, Orr mentioned his futile search for signs of possible survivors.
Fast forward 50 years, Orr found himself engaged in discussions with the Michigan State Police to resolve a lawsuit involving allegations against Lt. David Busacca regarding rights violations during a discredited sexual abuse investigation that led to Orr’s wrongful detention. During the negotiations, the state unexpectedly expressed interest in the Fitzgerald life ring, which Orr had in his possession, leading to a substantial increase in the settlement amount.
Despite feeling manipulated by the state’s inclusion of the life ring in the settlement, Orr acknowledged the financial necessity to facilitate his relocation from a recreational vehicle in Yulee, Fla. The subsequent renegotiation resulted in Orr retaining the life ring while the state agreed to pay $600,000 to settle the police misconduct lawsuit.
Orr had previously allowed the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Paradise, Mich., to exhibit the distinctive orange ring bearing the word “Fitzgerald.” However, he is now contemplating selling the artifact at an auction as he aims to purchase a modular home and address his wife’s ailing vehicle.
The peculiar circumstances surrounding the settlement drew attention when first reported in late October. In response to inquiries about the appropriateness of the deal, a state police spokesperson cited discomfort and confirmed the revised agreement wherein Orr will regain possession of the ring, and the state will compensate him $600,000 for the lawsuit settlement.