British holidaymaker drowns in Menorca after wave sweeps him away
- A British tourist, aged 72, was swept off his feet by a wave while near the Pont d’en Gil arch in Menorca.
- Witnesses from a nearby apartment alerted authorities after seeing him struggle in the water, but rescue efforts arrived too late.
- An investigation has been launched while an autopsy is scheduled to confirm the cause of death.
In Menorca, a British holidaymaker tragically drowned after being swept into the sea by a large wave. The incident occurred around 1pm when the 72-year-old man, while strolling along the coastline near the spectacular Pont d’en Gil arch, was knocked off his feet on the rocky shoreline. Witnesses from a nearby apartment block alerted emergency services as they saw him struggling in the rough waters. Unfortunately, by the time rescue teams arrived, the man had already succumbed to drowning. Emergency responders, including local police, coastguards, paramedics, and Civil Guard officers, quickly mobilized following the emergency call. Despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead at Ciutadella Port after being recovered from the water. An autopsy is scheduled to confirm the cause of death, clarifying whether it was solely due to drowning or if another cause, such as a potential head injury from the fall, contributed. At the time of the incident, a strong easterly wind was reported, likely exacerbating the dangerous sea conditions. The area surrounding Pont d’en Gil, known for its dramatic coastal formations and underwater caves frequented by divers, presents inherent risks, especially during inclement weather. Such tragedies highlight the importance of caution when engaging with natural coastal environments, particularly for tourists unfamiliar with the region’s potential hazards. Local authorities are conducting a routine investigation to understand better the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.