8-year-old girl drowns in Chiriquí Viejo River

An 8-year-old girl has died by drowning in the Chiriquí Viejo River in Tierras Altas, Chiriquí province. Preliminary reports indicate the child was with family members when she disappeared in the river for reasons authorities are now investigating. She was found floating minutes later and rushed to the Minsa-Capsi in Volcán, where medical personnel confirmed she had no vital signs upon arrival.

The National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) has reissued its warnings to the public about prevention measures, particularly for those living near or recreating by rivers and streams. The agency noted that even with sunny conditions in lower areas, continued rainfall in the Central Mountain Range can cause sudden river flooding. Sinaproc also issued strong tide advisories for the Pacific coast, urging beachgoers and those engaged in water activities to heed official warnings.

This tragic incident marks the eighth drowning death recorded in Chiriquí this year, according to emergency services. The majority of these fatalities have occurred in rivers, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the region.