Family questions circumstances of young man's drowning at Guatapé reservoir party

The death of 22-year-old Alexander Avendaño, who drowned after jumping into the water during a party on a raft in Colombia's Guatapé reservoir, is under investigation. Avendaño's body was recovered on May 30, days after the incident on May 24.

Authorities are examining videos of the event and seeking to determine if his death was accidental or if third-party involvement played a role. The Ministry of Transportation has indicated that sanctions may be imposed on those responsible. Minister María Fernanda Rojas stressed that safety is paramount and operators have a continuous obligation to protect passengers, leaving no room for exceptions when lives are at stake.

While the involved vessel reportedly had the necessary documentation, including navigation permits and safety equipment, the investigation continues. Avendaño's cousin, Luisa Fernanda Cano, stated that the family learned of the incident through a call informing them he had jumped into the reservoir, but later saw videos that offered a partial account of events. The investigation is also exploring the possibility of criminal activity behind the young man's death.

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Safety cannot be understood solely as compliance with documentary requirements. Each operator has a permanent obligation to ensure the effective protection of passengers throughout the navigation. When people's lives are at stake, there is no room for exceptions.