Suche
Mein Konto
Drama on Lake Chiemsee: Fire brigade fights against onlookers during a rescue operation
A 72-year-old rescued himself on Lake Chiemsee when authorities and water rescue services had to intervene during an emergency.
Drama on Lake Chiemsee: Fire brigade fights against onlookers during a rescue operation
On June 14, 2025, the idyllic community of Seebruck am Chiemsee became the scene of a dramatic rescue operation. A 72-year-old who suddenly fell into the water was discovered by water sports enthusiasts in acute distress. The Seebruck water rescue service immediately rushed to help and began chest compressions to save the man's life. However, this incident not only caused medical excitement, but also an unpleasant problem: a large number of onlookers who observed the rescue efforts and made the work of the emergency services more difficult. Martin Niedermaier, the fire brigade commander, emphasized the difficulties in keeping onlookers, including a wedding party, away. The fire brigade set up a privacy screen and closed access to the harbor to make space for the emergency services.
During the course of the operation, the ambulance and the fire department were also alerted, while the rescue helicopter “Christoph 14”, stationed in Traunstein, was requested. This helicopter, part of an extensive air rescue network, is equipped with the latest medical equipment and specializes in emergency medical operations. The decision to use the helicopter was made by experienced dispatchers who always keep the medical urgency in mind DRF air rescue reported.
Sad ending for a man
While the operations leader mobilized his forces to deal with the disorder among the onlookers, it became apparent that not all rescue attempts were successful. A 72-year-old man from the Landshut district did not survive his attack of weakness. However, another 72-year-old from the northern district of Rosenheim, who was also in need of rescue in Chiemsee, was saved.
The tragedy and the associated crowding at the scene of the accident have reignited the discussion about the behavior of onlookers during emergencies. Such incidents not only place a strain on emergency responders, but can also potentially be critical for the people affected. The fire department and water rescue service always work to carry out rescue operations without distractions from uninvited bystanders, which was not easy in this particular case.
An appeal to the public
In view of the events, the fire brigade is calling on the public to keep their distance during such operations and to give the emergency services free rein. The success of rescue operations can often only be guaranteed if conditions are undisturbed. The understanding and consideration of citizens can be crucial to saving lives - no matter how exciting the scene may seem.
In accordance with the principles of emergency rescue, the airborne rescue workers are effectively involved in the event in order to bring patients to the nearest suitable clinic as quickly as possible. The increasing availability of the most modern aids such as mechanical resuscitation aids and mobile sonography shows how important it is to be well prepared for every situation. Rescue helicopter play a central role in this.
The tragic events in Seebruck am Chiemsee remind us to be vigilant and to ask ourselves how we should behave in such moments. After all, it's not just about the spectacle, but above all about the people whose lives are at stake.