Child's tragic pool accident prompts urgent safety reminders

The family, while enjoying their time at Watzmann-Therme, was preparing to leave around 3:20 PM when the parents realized that their three-year-old son was missing. A frantic search ensued, culminating in the discovery that the boy had wandered off and returned to the area of the complex where the recreational pool is located.

According to police reports, the boy had returned unnoticed to the first floor, where the pool is situated, and for unknown reasons, fell into the water.

It is believed that he remained submerged for several minutes before being noticed by nearby individuals.

Two 12-year-old girls were the first to notice the child's motionless body in the water. They quickly pulled him out and sought the assistance of adults. A doctor, who was present at the scene, found the child and immediately began resuscitation. Police officers and a medical rescue team soon joined the rescue efforts.

Given the boy’s critical condition, an air transport to a hospital in Salzburg was arranged. A rescue helicopter was dispatched, and with the assistance of the fire department, the landing area was illuminated. According to local authorities, the child's condition remains very serious.

The boy's family is receiving psychological support from a specialized crisis intervention team.

Police are asking any witnesses to come forward with information that could help clarify the circumstances of the accident. Reports can be directed to the Berchtesgaden Police Department at phone number 08652/9467-0.

This incident has shocked both the local community and visitors to the facility, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in recreational areas, especially concerning children's safety.