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Rescue at Aquarius Lake: 22-year-old still missing!
Rescue workers are looking for a missing man in Wassermannsee in Cologne. A woman was rescued and investigations are ongoing.
Rescue at Aquarius Lake: 22-year-old still missing!
Early on Thursday morning, June 12, 2025, rescue workers were alerted in Wassermannsee in Cologne when residents heard cries for help. A 24-year-old woman was rescued from the cold water of the lake and taken to the university hospital with hypothermia. The emergency services were quickly on site and were able to bring the woman to the shore. But while the young woman was fortunately rescued, a 22-year-old man from Cologne remains missing. Evidence suggests that he was also in the water after they both went swimming in the dark. The incident occurred despite the bathing ban in effect at Wassermannsee, as RTL reports.
Helicopters, drones, divers and sonar devices were used during the search operation, which was supported by the DLRG, the fire department and volunteers. The DRK rescue dog team was also called in to provide support. Visibility under water was severely limited due to the heavy vegetation and the depth of up to ten meters, often less than half a meter. This shows once again the danger of water, which is often underestimated by the population. The deployment of specialists from the Missing Persons Unit makes it clear how serious the situation is. Early inspections revealed that personal items such as clothing, a wallet and a cell phone were found on the shore that could be traced to the missing man.
Search operation and investigation
The fire department stopped its search at 10 a.m. and handed the scene over to the police. So far there is no evidence of foul play. The criminal police then began investigations and are currently evaluating witness statements. It is unclear what drew the man and woman into the water that night. Another aspect that puts the event in a darker light: There are signs that both were possibly under the influence of alcohol and/or narcotics. Express reports that the reasons for the nighttime swimming have not yet been determined.
Increase in swimming accidents
In view of the tragic events, a frightening trend also emerges. In 2024, at least 253 people have already drowned in Germany, which is 35 more than in the previous year. Lakes are particularly affected, where 77 people lost their lives. [ZDF]. The DLRG advises both experienced and inexperienced swimmers to only swim in guarded areas and not to ignore the risks of drugs and alcohol before swimming.
It remains to be hoped that the missing man will be found quickly and the circumstances that led to this incident will soon be clarified.