The death toll from Thursday's tragedy during a coastal walking outing in Le Conquet, Finistère, has risen. A third person has died after being rushed to the hospital in critical condition following the session, which was marked by rough seas.
The group, made up of eight people aged 60 to 75, was practicing aqua walking on Blancs-Sablons beach when several participants were reportedly caught in a powerful swell accompanied by strong gusts of wind. Two people died at the scene Thursday morning, while several others were evacuated to hospitals in Brest.
Particularly difficult maritime conditions
According to the Brest prosecutor, the victims were knocked off their feet by powerful waves in a sea temperature of approximately 13 degrees Celsius. A major rescue operation was launched, mobilizing firefighters, a helicopter, and medical teams to assist the participants in difficulty.
The mayor of Le Conquet explained that the Blancs-Sablons beach is usually very popular with those practicing coastal walking and does not present any particular danger under normal conditions. However, Thursday's weather conditions significantly increased the risks in this coastal area of Finistère.
An investigation has been opened following the tragedy.
An investigation has been launched to determine the precise circumstances of the accident and understand the maritime phenomenon that trapped the group. Authorities are particularly interested in establishing whether the participants were adequately informed of the sea conditions at the time of their outing.
Coastal walking, also known as water walking, has seen strong growth in France in recent years, particularly among seniors. This activity involves walking in the sea with the water generally reaching waist or chest height.
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