Tragic swimming accident: 18-year-old dies at Lake Karlsfelder

Tragic swimming accident: 18-year-old dies at Lake Karlsfelder

On Friday, June 15, 2025, a tragic swimming accident occurred at Lake Karlsfelder in which an 18-year-old man lost his life. The incident was confirmed by the water rescue service and the police. The young man was invited to swim with friends in the late afternoon. As sueddeutsche.de reports, he apparently planned to swim from the shore to the central platform. However, halfway through the journey he turned back and found himself in a situation where he couldn't cope.

His friends, who could no longer see him, alerted the rescue workers at 7:19 p.m. As a result, a large-scale rescue chain was activated and divers from the water rescue service searched the lake. After intensive efforts, the young man was finally rescued. He was immediately taken to a clinic with ongoing resuscitation measures, but despite all their efforts, the doctors were only able to declare death a short time later. There is no evidence of alcohol or drug consumption; the exact cause of death is still being determined.

Warning of dangers in the water

The district water rescue service is using this incident to draw attention to the dangers of swimming in open water. Bathers often underestimate the risks, especially when they are at a greater distance from the shore. The water rescue service recommends never swimming alone and staying close to the shore. Untrained swimmers in particular should stay in groups and never be left alone. Muscle cramps or sudden attacks of weakness can be life-threatening in such situations.

The water rescue service also points out that jumping into cold water can lead to circulatory problems. Getting used to the water temperature slowly is strongly recommended. In an emergency, the emergency number 112 should be dialed. Blue rescue points are installed around Lake Karlsfelder and Waldschwaigsee, which help rescue workers to get to the scene quickly.

Behavior in an emergency

In the event of a swimming accident, it is crucial to act quickly. The number 112 should be dialed immediately to alert professional rescue services. drk-sz.de recommends never jumping directly into the water to save the drowning person. Instead, you should try to throw him a buoyant aid and, if possible, support him from the shore. It is important to always keep an eye on the scene of the incident in order to inform the rescue services precisely.

Drowning people usually panic and try to cling to anything they can hold on to, including rescuers. Therefore, care should be taken to maintain a safe distance to avoid the risk of being accidentally dragged along.

Protective measures for bathers

Caution is advised when using buoyancy aids such as water wings or air mattresses. dlrg.de warns that these tools can in no way replace supervision. Watchdogs should always be within reach so that they can intervene quickly in an emergency. Safety precautions must also be taken when using inflatable toys, as they can be dangerous if used incorrectly.

For many, a visit to the lake is a relaxing experience. This makes it all the more important to recognize the dangers and be well prepared. Use the water rescue service's recommendations to start the summer safely and carefree.