BELTHANGADY: A 21-year-old youth drowned while swimming in a river at Parpikallu in Nidle village of Belthangady taluk on the afternoon of October 20, 2026.
The deceased has been identified as Keerthan, son of Janardhan Gowda, a resident of Moodubail in Kowkrady village. According to reports, Keerthan had visited Parpikallu with his friends to bathe in the river when the tragedy occurred.
Youth reportedly entered deep water
Keerthan was swimming in the river when he reportedly entered deeper water without realising its depth and drowned. The incident left his friends and others at the spot in distress.
Local residents responded immediately and retrieved his body from the river. He was subsequently taken to the Belthangady Government Hospital.
Dharmasthala police investigate
Dharmasthala police visited the spot following the incident and have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the drowning.
The incident highlights the risks associated with swimming in rivers, particularly in unfamiliar areas where water depth and underwater conditions may be difficult to assess. People visiting rivers are advised to exercise caution and avoid entering deep water without appropriate safety measures.
Further details about the incident may emerge as the police investigation progresses.