Fatal incident at Playa de Palma: Tourist dies despite resuscitation

Tragic incident in the late afternoon

On the late Friday afternoon, the promenade of Playa de Palma still had that typical late-summer buzz: towels, cold drinks, voices in several languages. Around 6:10 PM it suddenly became an alarm. A lifeguard spotted a man floating face-down in shallow water — near the well-known Balneario 15.

Swift help, prolonged resuscitation

The lifeguard pulled the man ashore and immediately began first aid. Colleagues from the beach post, an ambulance, and shortly afterwards an on-call doctor were quickly on scene. The responders worked calmly, witnesses report: repeatedly a short, weak pulse, then again no sign of life. Overall the resuscitation attempts lasted almost an hour. Despite all measures, the 80-year-old visitor, a French tourist, could not be revived. At around 7:05 PM the emergency services pronounced him dead.

Police investigate the cause of death

Officers from the local police and the national police secured the scene and questioned those present. According to initial information, there were no indications of external foul play. The exact cause of death will now be medically clarified. On the beach, worried vacationers and residents gathered; an older couple from the area spoke softly about heart problems and that many guests overestimate their limits.

A serious wake-up call: Particularly in the hot months, rescue teams at the island's busy beaches are constantly challenged. Time and again, underestimated waves, sudden illness, or alcohol in play lead to dangerous situations. Many locals recall cases where simple caution could have saved lives: do not swim alone, listen to your body, consult a doctor in case of pre-existing conditions.

For the relatives and the people who witnessed the operation, the incident was shocking. At a popular beach location like Playa de Palma, such an event always feels particularly close: short distances, a lot of people, a lot of routine—and yet it ends tragically sometimes. The authorities ask for consideration and vigilance, especially now that the weather invites people to visit the beach.