Teen Drowns in Jinlun River, Taitung After Swimming Incident; Authorities Urge Water Safety Awareness 🌊🇹🇼
Taitung County, Taiwan — A tragic drowning incident occurred this afternoon in Jinlun River, Dawu Township, resulting in the death of a 17-year-old male student from National Taitung Junior College. Authorities confirmed that despite rescue efforts, the victim was later declared dead at the hospital.
According to the Taitung County Fire Department, the emergency call was received shortly before 3:00 PM after witnesses reported a drowning near the Jinlun cemetery area. 🚨 Firefighters from Jinfeng, Taimali, and Dawu stations were immediately dispatched, deploying rescue boats and lifeguard equipment to the scene.
The teenager had reportedly gone to the river with his cousin to swim near the Qianzailun Bridge in Jinlun Village. It was the first time both had visited the area, and neither was wearing proper swimming gear or safety equipment such as life jackets or flotation devices.
During the rescue operation, a firefighter entered the water using protective gear and a rescue floatation device, successfully locating and retrieving the victim at around 3:25 PM. However, the student was found unconscious and not breathing. CPR was immediately performed on-site before he was rushed to Mackay Memorial Hospital in Taitung, where he was later pronounced dead. 💔
Authorities have expressed deep sorrow over the incident and have coordinated with local education and indigenous affairs offices to assist the bereaved family with counseling and funeral arrangements. 🕊️
Officials also stressed that river environments are extremely unpredictable, with hidden currents and underwater hazards even when the surface appears calm. As summer approaches, the fire department strongly advises the public to only swim in designated areas with lifeguards and to avoid unauthorized or dangerous water sites. ⚠️
The local government has also pledged to enhance safety warnings and restrict access to hazardous river sections to prevent similar tragedies in the future.