Last year, Kisalföld also reported on the terrible and shocking tragedy. The investigation has since been closed and the prosecutor’s office has filed charges in the case.
According to the indictment, the defendant and his two friends were canoeing on the Mosoni-Danube last August, with the defendant steering the boat. The victim and his friends were experienced hikers and good swimmers, so the two passengers did not even wear life jackets.
During the canoe trip, the accused wanted to turn around, but did not take into account the backflow in the water area. The water pressure overturned the turning canoe and the occupants fell into the river. Among the three hikers, the helmsman and one of his companions were able to swim to shore, while the third party was swept away by the water. The victim and his companion saw that their friend was in control of the current and drifting voluntarily, so they only started looking for him later. However, at that time, more than 200 meters down, only the man’s lifeless body was found. The victim’s death was caused by drowning.
According to the prosecution, an indirect causal connection between the overturning of the canoe and the victim’s death can be proven. The prosecution charged the defendant with the misdemeanor of endangering water transport, caused by negligence, causing death. Up to five years in prison can be imposed against him. The substantive decision in the case is expected to be made by the Mosonmagyaróvár District Court.
