Tragedy in Lower Austria

Ottenstein reservoir: Fisherman falls out of boat – dead!

The emergency services fought in vain for the 72-year-old's life at the Ottenstein reservoir.

(Bild: FF Friedersbach)

A tragedy occurred on Tuesday at the Ottenstein reservoir in Waldviertel. A 72-year-old fisherman suddenly fell backwards out of a boat into the deep water. His companions quickly pulled him out of the water and administered first aid. The police confirmed the death. A helicopter had already been deployed there during the night. But with a happier outcome.

The exact cause of death is still being investigated, police spokesman Raimund Schwaigerlehner confirms the fall of a man from a boat into the Ottenstein reservoir. So far, it is assumed that the 72-year-old Styrian died of a medical cause such as a circulatory problem or a heart attack.

Fell backwards into the water
The fisherman was out on several boats with a group of companions. Suddenly, he is said to have fallen backwards from the boat into the reservoir, according to police sources. A second and third angler reacted immediately and quickly pulled the man out of the water with their combined strength. 

Immediate first aid
The fishermen immediately initiated first aid. At around 9.40 am, the Friedersbach and Rudmanns fire departments were also alerted and assisted the rescue and emergency medical teams in transporting the heavy medical equipment. (Access to the water near the reservoir bridge on the B38 is usually very steep).

The steep path was a challenge for the emergency services.

(Bild: FF Friedersbach)

The accident occurred at the Ottenstein reservoir.

(Bild: Waldviertel Tourismus)

Fight for life lost
Despite immediate and extensive resuscitation attempts, the emergency services lost the battle for the 72-year-old's life. The emergency helicopter had to take off without the patient and the fire department brought the body to the landing stage, where it was handed over to a funeral parlor.

Helicopter operation during the night
At around 1.30 a.m., witnesses described a helicopter operation, which was confirmed by the police. "It was a search operation for a missing swimmer," they say. However, this operation ended more successfully. The woman was found.