Tragedy in Austria: 17-Year-Old American Kayaker Dies in River

A 17-year-old American tragically died while kayaking in a river in Austria. The body of the young man was recovered today, police announced.

Austrian authorities were informed on Tuesday afternoon about the disappearance of the 17-year-old in the Zalach River, near the town of Lofer. A search and rescue operation followed, which was suspended overnight and resumed today.

Rescue teams found the 17-year-old dead. According to a spokesperson for the Salzburg rescue services, the kayaker was trapped under a rock. The victim was part of a group of eight tourists under the guidance of three instructors. After hitting a rock, his kayak overturned and was swept away by the currents.

Approximately 120 rescuers participated in the search and rescue operation, including Germans from neighboring Bavaria.

Source: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ