Condolences have been conveyed to the family of a three-year-old girl who tragically died following a drowning incident on Friday afternoon.

At approximately 14:50 on 27 February, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Witsand duty crew was activated following reports of a drowning in progress about 20km upstream from the Breede River Mouth.

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Launched rescue craft

NSRI Witsand Station 33 responders launched the rescue craft JetRIB from their base to attend to the emergency.

Western Cape Government Health Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) were also alerted.

Upon arrival at the scene, NSRI crews found local community members performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the child, who had been found floating unresponsive in the water and pulled from the river by family members.

NSRI medics assisted with CPR efforts until EMS paramedics arrived. Despite extensive attempts to resuscitate her, the toddler was declared deceased at the scene.

Opened inquest docket

The child’s body has been taken into the care of SAPS and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.

Police have opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The family, who are from Malawi, are being supported during this difficult time.

Community members who first responded are commended for their swift efforts to try to save the child.

Authorities have extended their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.