A 19-year-old footballer from Puerto Montt drowned in Lake Llanquihue after rough weather swept him and his 11-year-old brother off their paddleboard; the younger sibling was rescued.
Teen Footballer Drowns While Paddleboarding in Chile
A teen footballer has tragically drowned after falling into a lake while paddleboarding with his younger brother.
Paolo Millalonco Díaz, 19, and his 11-year-old sibling were swept off their board into Lake Llanquihue in southern Chile’s Lake District due to rough weather conditions.
The younger brother was rescued alive, but Paolo did not resurface.
Rescuers found Paolo’s body about 328 feet from the shore, where the water reached a depth of around 98 feet.
Neither brother was wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident on Thursday, according to authorities.
The search operation included units from the Chilean Navy.
Paolo, from the city of Puerto Montt, played for the non-league team CD Balmaceda.
He had previously played for the academies of top-flight club Huachipato FC and second division side Deportes Concepción.
A spokesperson for Huachipato said, “It is with great sorrow and sadness that we announce the tragic passing of our former player, Paolo Millalonco Díaz, who suffered an accident yesterday at Lake Llanquihue.”
A spokesperson for Deportes Concepción stated, “Our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
His former school also paid tribute to the teen footballer.
A spokesperson for Talcahuano Commercial High School said he was a “beloved former student of the class of 2024” and that his “memory will remain present in our hearts.”
An investigation into Paolo’s death is ongoing.
Summary of Events
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Paolo Millalonco Díaz |
| Age | 19 |
| Location | Lake Llanquihue, Chile |
| Incident Date | Thursday |
| Brother’s Age | 11 |
| Rescue Status | Brother rescued alive |
| Body Found | 328 feet from shore |
| Depth of Water | 98 feet |
| Life Jackets | Not worn |
| Teams Played For | CD Balmaceda, Huachipato FC, Deportes Concepción |
