Rescue operation - Markkleeberg: Unmanned paddleboard triggers large-scale operation
A nameless stand-up paddleboard had triggered an extensive response from rescue services at Markkleeberger See. The paddleboard rental company had reported the drifting board around 5 pm, leading to intense search efforts by police, fire department, and other rescue services as the police announced on Tuesday morning. A 57-year-old man had rented the board in the afternoon of the previous day.
A rescue dog squad, a helicopter, and drones were involved in the search for the possibly injured man. A diving team of the German Life-Saving Association (DLRG) was also part of the search. However, no one had been found yet, the police continued to report. The search was called off at around 10 pm on Tuesday due to darkness. The search was resumed on Tuesday, but without success.
Police statement
The drone from the rescue services proved crucial in scanning the vast lake, providing valuable aerial views. Despite the involvement of the Markkleeberg police and the Saxony fire department in this large-scale operation, the missing man remained untraceable. The absence of any signs of the man or the paddleboard led the rescue worker to suspect an unfortunate accident in the water. On Wednesday, a helicopter from the German Red Cross joined the rescue effort, adding another layer to the complex operation.
