Boy's rescue from Watzmann-Therme: A race against time
Dramatic events unfolded on Friday evening at the popular Watzmann-Therme pool complex. A family from Hallein, Austria, who visited with friends, experienced a terrifying moment when their 3-year-old child disappeared.
As the family from Hallein, Austria, was preparing to leave the Watzmann-Therme, they realized at approximately 7:20 PM ET that their three-year-old son was missing. A frantic search ensued, during which it was found that the boy had wandered off and returned to a section of the complex where the recreational pool is situated.
According to police findings, the boy, unnoticed by his guardians, went back to the first floor of the complex where the pool is located and, for unknown reasons, fell into the water.
It is believed that he was underwater for several minutes before being noticed by people nearby.
Quick response from witnesses and rescue operation
Two 12-year-old girls were the first to spot the child's motionless body in the water. The young girls immediately pulled the boy out of the pool and went to alert adults. At that time, a doctor who happened to be present promptly began resuscitation efforts. Police officers and a medical rescue team quickly joined in to assist.
Due to the boy's critical condition, it was decided to airlift him to a hospital in Salzburg. A rescue helicopter was summoned to the site, and the landing area was illuminated with the help of the fire department. According to local services, the child is in very serious condition.
Police appeal to witnesses
The boy's family received psychological support from a specialized crisis intervention team.
Police are appealing to witnesses to report any information that could help explain the circumstances of the accident. Any reports can be directed to the Berchtesgaden Police Department at phone number 08652/9467-0.
This event has shocked both the local community and visitors to the facility, serving as a stark reminder of the need for heightened vigilance in recreational spots, particularly concerning children's safety.
