Two adolescents, aged 11 and 13, died by drowning in the Doubs river near Besançon, France, during a severe heatwave. According to local media reports, the children entered the water despite swimming prohibitions, and one youth reportedly attempted to rescue the other before both succumbed to cardio-respiratory arrest.
Details of the Rescue Attempt
The incident occurred as the region grappled with extreme temperatures. According to Le Dauphiné Libéré, one of the teenagers entered the river in an effort to save his friend. Despite the intervention of emergency services, both the 11-year-old and 13-year-old were in cardio-respiratory arrest upon arrival at the medical facility, where they were pronounced dead, according to France 3 Régions.
Heatwave Restrictions and Safety Warnings
Local authorities had explicitly banned swimming in the area prior to the incident. Both Midi Libre and BFM reported that the swimming prohibition was in place as part of safety measures during the ongoing heatwave.
The deaths occurred amid broader emergency mandates across France. According to Le Figaro, certain departments under red heatwave alerts have implemented strict measures, including a ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol in specific public areas to mitigate heat-related risks.
