News24 | Toddler’s body found floating in Breede River, upstream from Witsand river mouth

The lifeless body of a three-year-old girl was recovered from the Breede River, upstream from the Witsand river mouth.

The lifeless body of a three-year-old toddler was discovered floating in the Breede River, about 20km upstream from the river mouth in Witsand, Western Cape on Friday.

The tragedy unfolded at around 14:50 when the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Witsand duty crew were called, following reports of a drowning.

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When they arrived, rescuers found local community members performing CPR on the young girl.

“NSRI medics and EMS paramedics continued life-saving efforts, but despite their extensive attempts, the toddler was declared deceased at the scene,” NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon said.

According to Lambinon, the toddler’s lifeless body was found in the water before being recovered by family members. Local residents acted quickly, attempting CPR while raising the alarm.

The child’s body has been taken into the care of the police and the government health forensic pathology services. An inquest docket has been opened as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning.

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