80-year-old dies after cardiac arrest while swimming in Colònia de Sant Pere | Mallorca

In the afternoon, an 80-year-old man died after a cardiac arrest in the water. Rescue services tried to save his life on site but were unsuccessful.

Tragic bathing accident in Colònia de Sant Pere

Yesterday around 16:30, the calm bay of Colònia de Sant Pere became the scene of a serious incident: an about 80-year-old man suffered cardiac arrest while swimming. Passersby along the promenade and sunbathers on the small pebbled beach watched as lifeguards and an ambulance arrived quickly.

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Swift help, but no happy ending

Eyewitnesses report that the lifeguards were at the water within minutes and brought the man ashore. There they immediately began life-saving measures, supported by an on-call medical team that arrived by ambulance. Despite several resuscitation attempts and the use of a defibrillator, his life could not be saved. The rescuers declared him dead on the beach.

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The exact identity of the deceased is not currently being released — relatives should be informed first, according to the police. Local authorities, including the Guardia Civil and the Policía Local, are investigating the circumstances, but so far see no signs of foul play. It is likely a tragic medical emergency.

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How the scene looked

Those walking along the promenade yesterday noticed the unusual commotion: an ambulance with flashing lights, two lifeguards in red neoprene outfits, and several boats crossing in front of the bay. In the small parking area at the access road, neighbors later sat quietly looking out to sea — typical for a place where everyone knows everyone.

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An older man nearby softly said: “He used to sit at the quay a lot, spoke with the fishermen. It’s sad.” Such lines stick with you. No grand words, only the effort to understand that someone you sometimes waved to is no longer there.

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Remembrance and a practical note

This sad report reminds us how quickly relief can turn into danger. Especially older people and those with pre-existing conditions should be careful in the water and, if possible, not swim alone. If you are at the beach: heed the lifeguards’ instructions, note the next rescue station and the emergency numbers (112 on Mallorca) — mundane, but important.

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The municipality has cordoned off the beach area for the next few hours to give space to relatives and the rescue team. We wish the family in Colònia de Sant Pere strength and ask you to respect their privacy now.

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If you saw anything that could help clarify the incident, please report it to the Guardia Civil in Artà.