A decades-old mystery surfaced from the bottom of a Maine lake after an underwater explorer discovered a rare 1974 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 resting nearly 55 feet underwater in Sebago Lake. The discovery, first made by drone operator Jason Smith, has sparked questions among investigators and classic car enthusiasts alike about how the muscle car ended up submerged for what could have been decades.
Authorities say the Camaro had no license plates, its windows were rolled down, and the only items found inside were remnants of an old tent. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office has since launched an investigation into the car’s history after identifying it using a partial VIN.
While speculation quickly spread online, investigators believe the car likely fell through the ice during winter rather than plunging from the nearby Frye Island ferry. The case has now become one of the most unusual automotive mysteries of the year.
Underwater Explorer Stumbled Upon the Camaro by Accident
The Camaro was discovered by Maine underwater explorer Jason Smith while he was searching Sebago Lake using a remotely operated underwater drone. Smith had reportedly returned to the area to revisit the location of a previously discovered snowmobile when he noticed an unusual shadow beneath the water. As the drone moved closer, it revealed the outline of a second-generation Chevrolet Camaro Z28.
The car was located in a deep section of the lake known as “The Notch.” An area between Frye Island and the mainland. According to local investigators, the vehicle was upright on its tires despite having been underwater for decades. Authorities later recovered the car with assistance from salvage crews and the Maine Warden Service.
Officials identified the vehicle as a 1974 Camaro Z28 after reconstructing the VIN from partially visible numbers found on the heavily damaged car. The 1974 model is notable among Camaro enthusiasts because it marked the final production year of the Z28 before Chevrolet temporarily discontinued the trim until 1977. The model originally featured a 350-cubic-inch L82 V8 engine producing around 245 horsepower.
Investigators Believe the Camaro fell through the Ice
One of the earliest theories suggested the Camaro may have fallen from the Frye Island ferry, which transports vehicles across Sebago Lake. However, investigators and ferry operators quickly dismissed that possibility, saying such an incident would have generated records and widespread local attention at the time.
Instead, authorities now believe the car most likely entered the lake after falling through ice during winter conditions many years ago. Investigators noted that the vehicle was found too far from shore to have accidentally rolled into the lake from a road or boat ramp.
Exactly when the Camaro sank remains unclear. Detectives say the lake’s cold freshwater conditions may have helped preserve parts of the vehicle despite severe rust and structural damage. During recovery, sections of the car reportedly collapsed under their own weight after years underwater.
The mystery surrounding the Camaro’s owner also remains unresolved. Officials are continuing to work with Maine’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles to trace ownership records linked to the reconstructed VIN.
Discovery Has Captivated Car Enthusiasts Online
The story quickly spread across automotive websites and social media, where enthusiasts began debating how the Camaro ended up on the lake floor. Some speculated the vehicle may have been abandoned after an accident, while others wondered whether it could have been connected to criminal activity decades ago. Investigators have not suggested any evidence of foul play.
Classic car fans were also fascinated by the Camaro’s condition. Photos from the recovery showed the vehicle still largely recognizable despite extensive corrosion and missing body sections. Automotive outlets noted that genuine 1974 Z28 models are relatively uncommon today due to low production numbers and years of attrition.
For Smith, the discovery was another reminder of what lies hidden beneath Maine’s lakes. He told local media that Sebago Lake’s depth and clear water make it ideal for underwater exploration, adding that “you never know what you’re going to find down there.”