Berlin – A tragic incident unfolded on Thursday followingnoon: A 79-year-old man jumped into the Landwehrkanal in Berlin-Tiergarten to save his dog but lost his life in the process.
Around midday, onlookers saw the man plunge into the water near the Cornelius Bridge in Berlin following his mixed-breed dog fell into the canal.
Man Rescues Dog, Then Drowns
After pushing his dog to the shore, the man was unable to climb out of the water and drowned.
It appears that the elderly man didn’t notice the high and steep sheet pile walls when his beloved pet was in danger.
Emergency services were called to search for the man. A rescue helicopter was also deployed.
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Divers Recover the Man’s Body
According to the fire department, divers located the 79-year-old and retrieved him with the assistance of a boat. Resuscitation attempts proved unsuccessful. The dog owner passed away around 1 p.m. A total of 36 firefighters were at the scene.
The dog is now in the care of family members, a police spokesperson told BILD.
Man Drowns Saving Dog in Berlin’s Landwehrkanal
Tragic Incident in Berlin-Tiergarten: A 79-year-old man tragically drowned in Berlin’s Landwehrkanal while trying to save his beloved dog. The heartbreaking incident occurred on Thursday followingnoon near the Cornelius Bridge.
A Dog’s Distress, a Man’s Sacrifice
Passersby witnessed the man’s heroic act. The dog, a mixed breed, had fallen into the canal, prompting the man to jump into the water. He successfully pushed his dog towards the shore but was unable to climb out himself.
A Devastating Loss
It was later revealed that the man likely did not notice the high and steep sheet pile walls, his focus solely on his dog’s safety. Rescue workers responded swiftly, deploying a helicopter and divers to search for the missing man.
Desperate Efforts, Tragic Outcome
Divers found the man’s body and brought him to shore for resuscitation efforts, but unfortunately, it was too late. He was pronounced dead at approximately 1 p.m., a tragic end to a valiant attempt to save his pet.
The Aftermath: A Community Mourns
The incident caused shock and sadness in the community. A total of 36 firefighters responded to the scene. The dog, unharmed, was taken into care by relatives.
Remembering the Hero
This heartbreaking incident highlights the lengths people will go to for their beloved pets. It is a stark reminder of the importance of being aware of potential dangers, especially around bodies of water. The man’s bravery in saving his dog, though ultimately lost, is a testament to the strong bond humans share with their animal companions.
Tips for Staying Safe Around Water
- Always be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to water conditions, currents, depth, and any potential hazards.
- Supervise children: Never leave children unsupervised around water, even in shallow areas.
- Wear a life jacket: This is especially important for those who are not strong swimmers.
- Learn CPR: Knowing how to perform CPR can save a life in an emergency.
Resources for Water Safety
- German Red Cross: https://www.drk.de
- German Life Saving Society: https://www.dlrg.de/
- German Water Safety Foundation: https://www.wassersicherheitstiftung.de
This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of water safety awareness and the unbreakable bonds between humans and their pets.