Two children, aged 12 and 14, were miraculously revived after being pulled unconscious from the Arachthos River on Wednesday afternoon near the area of Neochori, Arta.
The two minors were part of a group of four children who had gone swimming in the river without any adult supervision. Under circumstances that remain under investigation, the two older children were swept away by the river’s current and quickly disappeared beneath the surface.
The remaining two children immediately raised the alarm and sought help from passersby. A bus driver, along with a nearby citizen, responded to the cries for help and managed to pull the unconscious children from the water.
Emergency medical services (EKAV) arrived promptly at the scene. Paramedics began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on both children, who had no vital signs at the time of their rescue. The children were rushed to the General Hospital of Arta, where medical staff continued life-saving efforts.
After approximately 20 minutes of resuscitation, both children regained consciousness, to the immense relief of doctors and bystanders alike. They were subsequently taken for CT scans to assess potential internal injuries and are currently under close medical supervision.
Doctors have confirmed that both minors will be transferred to the ICU at the University Hospital of Rio in Patras for continued observation and care.
Authorities are now investigating the incident, including the conditions that led to the children entering the river unsupervised.
The quick response of the citizens and medical personnel was crucial in saving the lives of the two children in what could have easily turned into a tragedy.
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