Man found dead after rescue operation in western Norway

A man was pulled dead from the water in Luster municipality, Vestland county, on Saturday morning after police launched a rescue operation following the discovery of an empty pleasure boat, Dagbladet reports.

Emergency services located the man shortly after 8 am, brought him ashore, and declared him dead at the scene. Authorities have not formally identified the body but believe it to be the missing boat owner. Next of kin have been notified.

Operational commander Tore-Andre Brakstad told reporters that police received an alert just before 8 am from a witness who had found the unmanned boat drifting. Inside, officers discovered a mobile phone and personal belongings indicating recent use.

“When we contacted the man’s relatives, they confirmed he used the boat but had no knowledge of his whereabouts,” Brakstad said.

The search involved police, fire services, and a rescue helicopter. Authorities confirmed the victim had local ties but released no further identifying details.