Recovery Operation Underway After Killaloe Tragedy

A major search and recovery operation is underway in Killaloe after a young man fell from a jet-ski into the River Shannon and failed to come back up to the surface.
It is understood the alarm was raised on Wednesday afternoon at about 5.20pm when a man, who is believed to be from Limerick City fell into the water just off an ESB building a short distance from Killaloe Bridge.
Killaloe Coast Guard arrived quickly on the scene and launched a vessel on to the water near an area known locally as Between the Waters, which was cordoned off from vehicular traffic to facilitate the arrival of a Clare Fire Services fire tender and fire truck with local fire service personnel.
Two ambulances arrived to the incident – one remained in a car parking space Between the Waters and the other vehicle was stationed near Ballina public toilets for a period of time.
The Rescue 115 helicopter from Shannon was also tasked and circled the lake to assist in the emergency operation.
The Killaloe Ballina Search and Recovery Unit also arrived on the scene as members prepared to mount a recovery operation for the man who is feared to have drowned at this stage.
Killaloe Gardai are also on the scene helping emergency services to try and locate the body.
A large group of onlookers are watching the rescue operation unfold from both sides of the bridge. Sizzling temperatures in Killaloe had brought a large group of visitors and locals who were enjoying the sunshine until news of the tragedy broke.

Dan Danaher