Halle Unveils Memorial Stone for Victims Drowned in Pond

The city of Halle has dedicated a memorial stone at the Centrum Van Koekenbeek, honoring the lives of a young boy and a man who tragically drowned in the center's pond in 2021. The memorial is discreetly placed in the green space at the front of the center.

The incident occurred when a 6-year-old boy, Alberto, fell into the pond. A 44-year-old man, Mohammed, immediately jumped in to save the child, but both ultimately lost their lives. The tragedy deeply affected the community, including Alberto's classmates and teachers.

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We still remember that day well; everyone was very sad, including the teachers.

"We still remember that day well; everyone was very sad, including the teachers," recalled two of Alberto's classmates. One of his former teachers added, "That period was very strange and sad. Not only for us, but also for the children. It's hard to explain how a boy who was in class with them the day before is suddenly no longer there."

The garden and pond area surrounding the Centrum Van Koekenbeek have since been renovated. The existing trees were preserved, while new paths, benches, and additional plants were added. The pond has been replaced by a Corten steel water table, creating a more serene environment. The redesigned garden now connects various facilities, including assisted living apartments, a residential care center, a service center, and a playground, transforming the site into an open green space with accessible pathways.

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That period was very strange and sad. Not only for us, but also for the children. It's hard to explain how a boy who was in class with them the day before is suddenly no longer there.