Three boys drown after jumping into rough sea from rocks in Tarragona, Spain
A 12-year-old and two 13-year-olds died after jumping into the sea from rocks at Arrabassada beach despite a yellow warning flag for high waves. Three days of mourning have been declared in Tarragona.
The incident
Six boys jumped from rocky outcrops into the sea near Arrabassada beach in Tarragona on Friday, despite a yellow flag warning of strong waves. Three of them managed to swim back to shore on their own, but the other three were overcome by the sea conditions and had to be pulled from the water by emergency services.
Rescue and casualties
Rescue teams used a helicopter and jet skis to reach the struggling swimmers. A 12-year-old boy died at the scene despite resuscitation attempts. Two 13-year-old boys were transported to hospital in critical condition but later died there, the regional emergency service reported.
Reactions and mourning
The president of Catalonia, Salvador Illa, said he was deeply shaken.
There are no words for a moment of such great sorrow.
Tarragona’s city council declared three official days of mourning. A minute of silence has already been held in the city.
Safety appeals
Tarragona mayor Rubén Viñuales urged the public to avoid unnecessary risks.
The yellow flag, indicating dangerous conditions, had been clearly displayed at the beach.Under no circumstances should anyone jump from the rocks.
