Norwegian rescuer died during search for missing Swedish child in Lofoten boat accident
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A rescue operation turned tragic off the coast of Lofoten, Norway, when a Norwegian rescue worker died while searching for a missing 12-year-old Swedish girl after a boat carrying seven people capsized in Nappstraumen.
The vessel, operated by Nordic Sea Angling, was carrying six Swedish tourists and a local fishing guide when it overturned under unclear conditions. While six people were rescued—one hospitalized, five unharmed—the young girl remains missing. Norwegian authorities have since shifted the operation from rescue to recovery, referring to her as a “presumed deceased person.”
During the initial rescue effort, a member of the Norwegian Sea Rescue Society entered the frigid waters to assist. According to maritime director Gorm Hillgar, the rescuer was already in the water when divers arrived. Despite rapid intervention, he was pulled from the sea and airlifted to safety but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
“He died while doing the most important thing a human can do—trying to save another life,” said Grete Herlovsen, Secretary General of the Norwegian Sea Rescue Society, during a press conference.
The organization has launched an internal review, and Norway’s Accident Investigation Board is conducting a formal inquiry.
A Sudden Disaster
Jimmy Andersson, CEO of Nordic Sea Angling, described the incident as “inexplicable,” noting that the 33-foot boat was one of the company’s largest and operated in seemingly stable weather. He reported that a rogue wave struck from behind, causing the vessel to veer and capsize.
The guide onboard reportedly performed a heroic act, diving beneath the overturned boat to rescue one of the children.
“He was inside the cabin with the kids while the adults were outside. He managed to pull one child out and save their life,” Andersson said.
The boat was recovered and brought ashore over the weekend. Photos from the scene show the vessel’s steering cabin missing, further complicating the investigation.
Read more:
https://www.svt.se/nyheter/utrikes/svenska-turister-i-batolycka-i-norge-en-saknas
https://ground.news/article/rescue-operation-in-lofoten-person-trapped-inside-boat