British Man Drowns At Torrox

British Man Drowns At Torrox – a 40 year old father has been killed by a riptide at El Peñoncillo beach

A British man on holiday with his wife and two daughters has drowned in the sea at El Peñoncillo beach. He died yesterday afternoon after entering the water with his ten year old daughter. Beachgoers spotted that the pair were in trouble and raised the alarm. Lifeguards and an off duty Guardia Civil officer formed a chain to rescue the man and his daughter.

Rescued

The young girl was pulled to safety and is believed to be recovering well. Her father was conscious when he was pulled from the water, but passed out on the beach. Ambulance crews spent an hour trying to revive him, but he passed away despite their efforts. An autopsy has not yet been carried out, but witnesses say that he may have suffered a heart attack.

El Peñoncillo beach

Red Flags

Beachgoers have criticised the number of red flags which were flying on the beach at the time. The nearest flag to the place where the man and his daughter entered the sea was 300 metres away. It´s not clear if the man didn´t see the flags, or chose to ignore them.

Fines

So far this year there have been 12 deaths on the beaches near Malaga and life guards have performed over 500 rescues. Councils are now considering introducing fines for anyone who ignores red flags on Costa Del Sol. An improved information and warning system for tourists is also being discussed,

Written by Dave James