19-year-old drowned in the Limmat – 16-year-old rescued
Published: Wednesday, Jul 10th 2024, 22:30
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A 19-year-old Afghan drowned while swimming in the Limmat in Zurich on Wednesday evening. Private individuals were able to reach a 16-year-old compatriot swimming in the strong current near Werdinsel and pull him to shore.
At 5.45 p.m., Zurich city police received a report of two people in distress on Werdinsel. Rescue teams were deployed immediately, according to the cantonal police. During this time, the private individuals had already rescued the 16-year-old.
A helicopter from the Alpine Air Ambulance flew down the river with police divers to search for the man, who was still missing. At around 6.30 p.m., the rescuers located the body of the 19-year-old downstream of Fahr monastery in the municipality of Schlieren. The police divers recovered him.
The Limmattal Hospital rescue service and an emergency doctor attempted to resuscitate the casualty. The rescued teenager was taken to hospital by the rescue service.
According to initial findings, the cantonal police assume that the two young men were inexperienced swimmers. The police and public prosecutor's office are investigating why the accident occurred.
The cantonal police warned that swimming in the rivers currently poses "certain dangers" due to currents, eddies and driftwood. Inexperienced swimmers and non-swimmers should also take care on the banks. A fall into the water could have devastating consequences.
©Keystone/SDA
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