Body Recovered from Dendre River in Ath, Belgium

Ath, Belgium – Emergency responders in Wallonia Picarde, Belgium, recovered the body of an elderly individual from the Dendre River near the Quai des Flandres in Ath on Sunday afternoon.

Details of the Recovery

The alert was received at 5:10 PM local time, prompting a response from the Rebaix (Ath) fire station. An emergency pump truck and command vehicle were dispatched to the scene.

According to an officer who led the operation, the body was located close to the riverbank, eliminating the need for a boat deployment. “Upon our arrival, the body was floating along the edge. We were able to bring the deceased to the shore,” the officer stated.

A Reminder of Water Safety

While authorities have not released further details regarding the identity of the individual or the circumstances surrounding their death, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with waterways, particularly as colder weather approaches.

Drowning is a significant, yet often underestimated, public health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are over 236,000 drowning deaths each year globally, making it a leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide. Factors such as age, alcohol consumption, and lack of swimming skills contribute to these tragic events.

Local Emergency Response

• Wallonia Picarde Emergency Services: First responders to the scene.
• Rebaix (Ath) Fire Station: Provided the emergency pump truck and command vehicle.

Local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution near rivers and canals, and to be aware of the risks involved. They also emphasize the importance of reporting any concerns regarding potential hazards to emergency services.

Investigations are ongoing.