British grandmother drowns rescuing granddaughter off Menorca coast

OPA WIRE, Oct 29 (OPA) — The tragedy unfolded at approximately 1 p.m. local time at the undeveloped cove on the island's northern coast. According to local authorities, the child was swept away by strong currents and northern winds reaching nearly 30 miles per hour, which caused her inflatable float to capsize. The grandmother entered the water in an attempt to reach the girl, while the victim's husband and daughter also attempted to intervene.

Beachgoers utilized ropes intended to mark protected dune areas to pull the child and her mother to safety. The grandmother’s husband managed to bring her body to the shore, but emergency responders, including paramedics and firefighters, were unable to resuscitate her. The husband was subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment of lacerations sustained during the rescue attempt, while the child and her mother received medical care for panic attacks.

Local officials confirmed that lifeguard services at Cavalleria Beach had concluded for the season on October 15, leaving no professional rescue personnel on duty at the time of the incident. The beach is known for its exposure to the Tramontana wind, which frequently generates hazardous sea conditions. Joan Palliser, mayor of Es Mercadal, attended the scene as a Spanish Coastguard helicopter was placed on standby.

The Civil Guard is leading an investigation into the incident, which is currently being treated as an accidental death. A formal report is expected to be submitted to a local court in the coming days. The family, whose specific origin in the United Kingdom has not been disclosed, had been staying at a villa in Son Bou for approximately one week prior to the accident.