Rome, May 4, (dpa/GNA) – A 71-year-old German holidaymaker has drowned during a kayak tour in southern Italy, the fire brigade said on Monday.
The man’s body was found in an overturned kayak near the small town of Capaccio Paestum south of Naples, the fire brigade said. Rescuers suspect the holidaymaker capsized on the Capodifiume river, became trapped and was unable to free himself.
Rescuers searched for the tourist all night but were only able to find the overturned boat and his body at daybreak.
The man had numerous injuries to his face, rescue workers said. They suspect his kayak was carried away by the current after capsizing and struck stones in the riverbed.
Prosecutors ordered a post-mortem examination to clarify whether the holidaymaker, died in an accident or may have suffered a health problem beforehand.
The tourist was on holiday in the town, which is known for its archaeological sites, with his wife. On Sunday, he said goodbye to go on a solo paddle tour on local waters towards the Mediterranean.
When he had still not returned after several hours, his wife reported him missing.
GNA