Tragic Lord's Day: Two dead after accident in Wolgast!

Tragic Lord's Day: Two dead after accident in Wolgast!

A tragic incident overshadows the Men's Day celebrations in Wolgast. On May 29th, a 27-year-old angler, Dennis, fell into the harbor basin near the Peene Bridge shortly before midnight and was unable to free himself. A group passing by noticed the incident and a 40-year-old spontaneously jumped into the water to help. Unfortunately, he also became submerged and both men ultimately became victims of a tragic accident. After a large-scale search, which included the use of a rescue helicopter and thermal imaging drones, the lifeless bodies of both men were recovered from the water after more than two hours. An emergency doctor could only determine death.

Emotions are running high in the community because both Dennis and the 40-year-old leave behind relatives who are now left in great sadness. The mother of the deceased, who works in the administration of the Peenestrom office, and employees of the Wolgast town hall have already launched several fundraising campaigns to support the families financially during this difficult time. The high funeral costs in particular represent a major burden. After his death, Dennis will be buried next to his father, who died three years ago, in Ahlbeck. So far, over 1,800 euros have been raised for the fundraising campaign, and many donors are former classmates of Dennis.

Fundraising campaigns to support relatives

Marie Horstmann, the 27-year-old's friend, has also started a fundraising campaign to provide the family with the best possible support. A fundraiser was also set up for the 40-year-old's son. These actions are available on the Gofundme platform:

• Für den 27-Jährigen: gofund.me/5f907154
• Für den Sohn des 40-Jährigen: gofund.me/19e7bd0e

Overview of drowning accidents

The German Life Saving Society (DLRG) warns that such tragic incidents are unfortunately not isolated cases. In 2023, the DLRG recorded at least 411 fatal accidents in water bodies in Germany, an increase of 31 deaths compared to the previous year. What is particularly worrying is that this is the third year in a row that an increase in drownings has been recorded. DLRG President Ute Vogt hopes that these figures will make people more aware of the dangers in water and is planning special educational campaigns in the coming months.

Now it is especially important to bring the community together and support those affected. The tragedy of this accident leaves no one untouched and reminds us how important it is to look after each other - both in everyday life and in dangerous situations on the water. The fire and rescue services work tirelessly to prevent such incidents, but the responsibility also lies with each individual.