Worker Drowns After Boat Capsizes on Mur River Near Graz

Authorities have confirmed that a construction worker lost his life by drowning after a boat overturned on the Mur River, south of Graz. The incident involved three workers, all of Polish nationality, who were utilizing a small aluminum boat as part of their duties on the Mur Bridge project along the South Motorway (A2).

On Wednesday morning, the three men embarked on the river in the boat to reach their work site. For reasons that remain under investigation, the vessel capsized and subsequently sank. Two of the workers managed to swim to the riverbank and escape the rapidly sinking boat, while the third, a 24-year-old man, went under and could not be rescued at the time.

Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene after being alerted by a witness. Multiple police patrols, a drone unit, rescue personnel, firefighters, and water rescue teams were deployed to the riverbank to assist in the search and recovery operation. Divers were able to locate and recover the body of the missing worker a short distance from where the boat had overturned.

The Graz public prosecutor's office ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of death. According to the official findings, the 24-year-old worker died from drowning. The two surviving colleagues were transported to a hospital in Graz for medical evaluation and treatment following the ordeal.

Preliminary investigations indicate that none of the three workers were equipped with life jackets at the time of the incident. This detail has become a focal point as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the accident. The aluminum boat used by the workers is also being subjected to a thorough inspection to identify any potential mechanical failures or contributing factors.

At present, the exact cause of the boat's capsizing remains unknown. Law enforcement and investigative teams have not yet released further details regarding planned interviews with the two surviving workers, who may provide additional insight into the sequence of events leading up to the accident.

The tragedy has prompted renewed attention to workplace safety standards, particularly regarding the use of personal protective equipment such as life vests when working on or near water. Construction activities along major infrastructure projects like the Mur Bridge frequently involve transport by boat, highlighting the importance of stringent safety measures in these environments.

Authorities have stated that investigations are ongoing, and further information will be provided as it becomes available. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with construction work on waterways and the critical need for adherence to safety protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future.