KRALENDIJK — Emergency services responded Sunday afternoon to a report of two snorkelers in distress in the waters off Lac Bay.
The central emergency dispatch center received the alert around 5:00 p.m. after the two swimmers encountered difficulties while snorkeling. According to initial reports, a strong current pulled them further out to sea, leaving them unable to return to shore on their own.
Authorities deployed a Coast Guard helicopter along with ambulance personnel to assist in the rescue operation. With the help of people who were present at the scene, both victims were eventually brought out of the water.
Resuscitation efforts were immediately started on one of the snorkelers. Despite the attempts by bystanders and emergency responders, the efforts were unsuccessful.
The victim, a 66-year-old tourist identified by the initials P.J.M., was pronounced dead at the scene. The second person involved in the incident was examined by ambulance staff but did not require medical treatment.
Investigation
The investigation department of the Caribbean Netherlands Police Force (KPCN) is currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
