A resident of Los Llanos de Aridane, over 65 years old, died after suffering injuries from the propeller of a recreational boat off the coast of Puntagorda. The captain, a friend of the victim, was treated for an anxiety attack.
The Civil Guard is investigating the circumstances of the tragic accident that occurred yesterday afternoon in the waters of the municipality of Puntagorda, on the west coast of La Palma. A 65-year-old man, a resident of Los Llanos de Aridane, lost his life after being caught by the propeller of a recreational vessel he was sailing on with a friend, a resident of Puntagorda and also of advanced age.
According to initial investigations, both had gone out fishing, an activity they had been doing together for decades. The accident occurred when, for reasons still under investigation, the victim fell into the water and the boat's propeller caused fatal injuries. The body became trapped under the vessel, which forced rescue teams to carry out a complex operation to recover it.
Emergency Mobilization
The Emergency and Security Coordinating Centre (Cecoes) of the Canary Islands Government received the alert around 16:00 hours and immediately activated the helicopter from the Emergency and Security Group (GES), a semi-rigid boat from the firefighters, and agents from the Civil Guard. Teams from the Canary Islands Emergency Service (SUC) and a helicopter from the Armed Institute also arrived at the scene.
The firefighters from the La Laguna park conducted a dive with underwater equipment to free the victim's body. Meanwhile, the captain of the vessel, who witnessed the accident, suffered an anxiety attack and was assisted by medical services at the scene.
Ongoing Investigation
The case has been taken over by the Territorial Team of the Judicial Police of the Civil Guard of Los Llanos de Aridane, which has the support of the body’s Forensic Laboratory. Officers are working to determine how the accident occurred and whether factors such as a mechanical failure or negligence were involved. The vessel involved was towed to the Port of Tazacorte for inspection.
The incident has shocked the island's fishing community, especially in the municipalities of Puntagorda and Los Llanos de Aridane, where the victim was known. The mayor of Puntagorda, in statements to this newspaper, expressed his condolences to the family and highlighted the close friendship that connected the two men.
The accident serves as a reminder of the dangers of maritime activities, even for experienced fishermen. Authorities recommend enhancing safety measures on board, such as using emergency engine stop devices and life jackets. The investigation remains open to clarify the facts and prevent future tragedies.
