Student drowns at Victoria Bay in George
George Municipality have urged beachgoers to be careful as lifeguards will only be on duty from December 1.
A tragic incident occurred at Victoria Bay in George yesterday (October 31) where a 21-year-old student from Nelson Mandela University drowned while another woman, also believed to be a student, was left in a serious condition reports the George Herald.
According to Southern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies, emergency personnel were called to the beach at about 17:20 after two women went missing in the water.
“Both were later retrieved, but one was declared dead by paramedics on the scene. The other was transported by ambulance to a nearby medical facility, where her condition was described as serious at the time,” Spies said in a statement.
Also read: SA’s drowning rate among world’s highest, experts call for constant supervision
George Municipality has urged beachgoers to exercise extreme caution, reminding the public that lifeguard services at designated Blue Flag beaches are seasonal from December 1 to March 31, in line with the approved tender contract.
“All beaches are used at own risk outside of the official lifeguard period,” the municipality said in a statement.
Swimmers and beachgoers are strongly advised not to enter deep water if no lifeguards are on duty.
Mayor Jackie von Brandis expressed her condolences, saying they are deeply saddened by this tragic incident and extend their heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and peers of the student who has passed away.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the second student receiving urgent medical attention. The safety of residents and visitors remains our highest priority. Please swim only in designated areas when lifeguards are on duty and exercise extreme caution at all times.”
The George police is currently investigating an inquest docket. The identity of the deceased will be released once her next of kin have been informed.
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Read original story on www.georgeherald.com
