A 14-year-old British girl is in critical condition after being rescued on a Costa Brava beach during what was reportedly her final swim before heading back home. She remains in intensive care at Josep Trueta Hospital in Girona following a near-drowning incident on Saturday when she was swept out to sea by a wave at Lloret de Mar.
The teenager, who was part of a school group from London on a study trip, was set to return to the UK the same day. Authorities were alerted to the situation after police were informed that the group was at the shoreline. Upon arriving at the scene, police observed the girl being carried out to sea by a wave. Despite their efforts to rescue her, she was found unconscious. Firefighters also aided in the rescue operation using a rope to bring everyone back to safety.
Video footage of the rescue shows the girl stranded about 500 feet from the shore before being brought back and receiving CPR for approximately 30 minutes. She was then taken to the hospital by ambulance. The beach area, initially cordoned off, was reopened once the girl was transported for medical care.
Local reports indicate that authorities are considering potential negligence in the incident, with proceedings initiated for further investigation. However, it has been suggested that the incident is currently being treated as an accident and that the tutors accompanying the group are not deemed responsible.
Witnesses praised the swift response of local law enforcement, fire services, and Civil Protection workers, acknowledging their efforts in rescuing the girl and administering life-saving CPR. They expressed hope that she will recover without lasting effects.