A 43-year-old British man has tragically drowned in Malta's famed Blue Lagoon after using a slide from a tourist boat, in a devastating incident that has shocked the holiday community.
The man, whose identity has not been officially released, was on a day trip to the popular beauty spot on the island of Comino when the tragedy unfolded on Tuesday afternoon.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the man use the slide from the deck of a tourist boat into the crystal-clear waters, a popular activity for visitors to the lagoon. However, he failed to surface after entering the water.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Malta's emergency services were immediately alerted and rushed to the scene. An Armed Forces of Malta helicopter was dispatched to assist in the rescue operation alongside local police and medical teams.
Despite frantic efforts from fellow tourists and rapid response from emergency personnel, the man was pulled from the water unconscious and unresponsive.
Medical teams performed extensive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at the scene for approximately thirty minutes in a desperate attempt to save his life.
Pronounced Dead at the Scene
Tragically, despite all efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene by medical professionals. The exact circumstances leading to the drowning remain under investigation by Maltese authorities.
The Blue Lagoon, known for its stunning turquoise waters and picturesque setting between Comino and Cominotto, is one of Malta's most popular tourist destinations, particularly during summer months.
Safety Questions Raised
This incident has raised serious questions about safety measures surrounding tourist activities in the area. The use of slides from boats has become increasingly popular with tour operators offering day trips to the lagoon.
Local authorities have confirmed an investigation is underway to determine whether all safety protocols were followed and if any additional measures need to be implemented to prevent similar tragedies.
The British Foreign Office has confirmed they are supporting the family of the deceased and are in contact with Maltese authorities regarding the investigation.
