Father-in-law and boy drown in Hassan lake while attempting rescue

Hassan, : In a tragic incident, a man and his young relative lost their lives after drowning in a lake in Hassan district’s Arsikere taluk on Sunday.

The deceased have been identified as Prabhakar (45) and Prateek (12), who shared a father-in-law and son-in-law relationship. According to officials, Prateek, a native of Somanahalli village in Dudda hobli, had come to stay at Prabhakar’s house in N. Hosahalli village during the summer vacation.

Police said the incident occurred when the two were walking along the bund of a nearby lake. “The boy reportedly slipped and fell into the water. In an attempt to save him, Prabhakar immediately jumped into the lake,” an officer said.

However, neither of them knew how to swim, which led to both drowning. Locals who later noticed the incident alerted authorities.

Fire and emergency services personnel rushed to the spot and carried out a search operation. After several hours, both bodies were retrieved from the lake. The  bodies were later handed over to the family members.

Police from Gandasi station visited the scene and conducted a preliminary investigation. “It appears to be an accidental death. Further inquiry is underway,” police said.

The incident has left the family and villagers in shock, with many expressing grief over the double tragedy. Locals said the lake area lacks proper safety measures such as warning signs or barriers, making it risky for visitors.

Authorities have once again urged people to exercise caution near water bodies, especially during summer when such incidents tend to increase.