Tragic swimming accident in Darmstadt: body of a 27-year-old recovered

Tragic swimming accident in Darmstadt: body of a 27-year-old recovered

A tragic swimming accident has caused consternation at the “Prince of Hesse” mine in Darmstadt. On Thursday, July 3, 2025, police divers found the body of a man in the swimming lake at around 12:30 p.m. Initial evidence suggests that it is a 27-year-old who was reported missing on Wednesday, July 2nd after he went under in the water, suggesting a swimming accident. Advance Online reports that the identity of the deceased has not yet been clarified beyond doubt at the time of reporting. Commissariat 10 of the Darmstadt criminal police has taken over the investigation and there is currently no evidence of foul play.

The city of Darmstadt warned on Wednesday about health risks when swimming in the water. Due to an increased concentration of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, the swimming lake was closed on Thursday during the search operations. How FR reported that the blue-green algae infestation has doubled due to the high temperatures above 35 degrees. This algae can pose serious health risks, including nausea, vomiting and shortness of breath. Therefore, bathers must pay attention to the warning signs posted at the DLRG station and around the lake.

The dangers of swimming

Swimming accidents increase especially in high season, when water temperatures rise. The German Life Saving Society (DLRG) points out various dangers that lurk when swimming in open water. Hundreds of people drown in Germany every year. At least 411 deaths were recorded in 2024, many of them young men. BNN has summarized some of the typical risks when bathing:

• Unterschiedliche Bedingungen wie Strömungen und Temperaturunterschiede im Vergleich zu Hallenbädern.
• Die Sichttiefe in der Grube „Prinz von Hessen“ liegt unter einem Meter, was die Rettung von Ertrinkenden erschwert.
• Alkohol und Drogen erhöhen das Risiko von Badeunfällen.
• Kopfsprünge ins Wasser sollten nur in tiefem, klarem Wasser erfolgen.
• Das Baden bei Gewitter ist äußerst gefährlich.

The DLRG and health authorities warn that visiting swimming lakes this summer is at your own risk. Water quality is being closely monitored by the city and further information will be released if the situation worsens.

At a time when temperatures are approaching mid-summer, it is up to each individual to act carefully and safely to avoid such tragic accidents. Finding ways to swim safely is now more important than ever. After all, no one wants a relaxing day by the water to end in tragedy.