Rescue worker dies during training exercise at Tungufljót in Iceland

A rescue worker sadly passed away during a training exercise at Tungufljót near Geysir yesterday. The deceased was identified as Sigurður Kristófer McQuillan Óskarsson, the chairman of the Kyndill rescue team in Mosfellsbær.

According to an announcement from the Icelandic Search and Rescue Association, the emergency call was received just before 4 PM. Swift water rescue teams promptly retrieved him from the river and attempted resuscitation, which unfortunately proved unsuccessful.

Borghildur Fjóla Kristjánsdóttir, the chairman of Landsbjörg, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “It is with great sadness that I must announce the passing of our dear colleague, Sigurður Kristófer McQuillan Óskarsson, during a swift-water rescue training exercise at Tungufljót on Sunday afternoon.”

All efforts are now focused on supporting his family and teammates with the psychological assistance they may need. Garðar Már Garðarsson, chief inspector of the Suðurland police, confirmed that rescue teams, including the Coast Guard helicopter, were deployed immediately after the incident was reported.

The police are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, and Landsbjörg has committed to providing all necessary support to the authorities during this process.