Teenager drowns in prohibited Sanxia River swimming area

A tragic drowning occurred in the Sanxia River in New Taipei City when an 18-year-old high school graduate, identified by the surname Liu, died after jumping into the water. The incident took place in a prohibited area known for its dangerous undercurrents, highlighting the risks associated with recreational activities in unmarked or restricted zones.

Liu was part of a group of four 18-year-old friends celebrating the end of their exams by swimming in the river. After jumping from a large rock, he failed to resurface. Emergency services, including dive teams, were dispatched and located him about 30 meters from the jump point on the riverbed. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts upon rescue, he was found without a pulse and later died after being transported to the hospital.

Authorities have posted signs prohibiting swimming, barbecues, camping, and other recreational activities in this particular section of the Sanxia River due to its remote location and hazardous conditions. While patrols are conducted, the lack of permanent stationed personnel in such areas poses challenges. The surviving friends expressed deep remorse over the incident.

Experienced rescue personnel warned that natural riverbeds can have unexpectedly cold water temperatures and strong undertows. They cautioned that jumping from heights into unfamiliar waters can easily lead to being caught in dangerous currents or having limbs trapped on the river bottom, tragically resulting in fatalities. This incident marks the first drowning in the Sanxia district this year, breaking a period of zero fatalities in recent years.