Three Bodies Recovered from Marchfeld Canal Near Gerasdorf

Authorities have recovered three bodies from the Marchfeld Canal near Gerasdorf, located in the Korneuburg district. The deceased are believed to be men who embarked on a stand-up paddleboarding outing earlier in the week. The search operation began after the mother of a 27-year-old man reported her son missing in Vienna, as she was unable to reach him.

The group reportedly planned a water tour on the canal, with their last known activity taking place on Monday. Personal belongings and stand-up paddleboards were later found near a weir installation in Gerasdorf, prompting a large-scale search effort. This operation involved police units, service dogs, drones, the water police, and local fire services.

The search commenced around 8:00 p.m. and continued for nearly five hours before being paused overnight. It resumed in the early hours, with a police helicopter assisting in the effort. Two of the bodies were located from the air in the canal area near Seyringer Straße, with the third discovered nearby shortly thereafter.

Current information from law enforcement suggests that the trio likely drowned after attempting to pass through the weir structure. Police investigations are ongoing, and the identities of two of the men--aged 27 and 28--have been confirmed. The third individual's identity remains unverified at this stage.

The regional criminal investigation team was deployed to establish the identities of the victims and document the scene. Additionally, the public prosecutor's office in Korneuburg has ordered autopsies to determine the exact causes of death. Initial findings indicate that the incident was accidental, with no evidence to suggest foul play.

Safety guidelines for the Marchfeld Canal prohibit the passage of boats, kayaks, and similar watercraft through weir installations. Operators of the canal have reiterated the dangers associated with such actions, emphasizing the risks of strong currents, eddies, and unpredictable water movements at these points. They have advised that all watercraft must be carried around weirs at designated areas to prevent accidents.

The tragic event highlights the critical importance of adhering to established safety protocols when engaging in recreational activities on waterways. Investigations are expected to continue as authorities seek further clarity on the sequence of events leading up to the deaths.