Stand-up paddler dies in Vorarlberg gravel-pit lake

Water rescue and police emergency services attended Lake Paspels and recovered the man from the water. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts, the 38-year-old could only be pronounced dead. His relatives were notified, as police reported.

Lake Paspels is a popular recreational body of water in Vorarlberg. Like other gravel-pit lakes in the region, it is used in summer for swimming, water sports and walking. The responsible authorities regularly point out that swimming and water sports in such bodies of water involve risks, particularly for inexperienced swimmers.

Investigation into the cause of the accident

Investigations into the exact cause of the accident began after the incident. According to current information, the main focus is on determining how the man fell from the board and what circumstances led to the drowning. Possible health factors are also being examined.

Police safety advice

The police pointed out in a statement that there is no continuous supervision of the water at gravel-pit lakes in Vorarlberg. Swimmers and water sports enthusiasts therefore need to be particularly cautious and use appropriate protective equipment. This includes life jackets when stand-up paddleboarding if they are not confident swimmers.

The case is being handled by police and the Feldkirch public prosecutor’s office. An expert is expected to reconstruct the exact sequence of events. Results are not expected until the investigations have been completed. The security authorities are also asking any potential witnesses to come forward.

Risks at Vorarlberg’s gravel-pit lakes

In the Vorarlberg region, there are repeated bathing accidents in gravel-pit lakes, which are considered particularly treacherous because of their depth, their beds and the lack of current monitoring. During the summer months, the authorities regularly intensify their water-safety advice and recommend using bodies of water only with suitable equipment and experience.