People searched for a young person who had fallen into the water near the shore at Kalajoki’s Hiekkasärkät on 25 July 2025. Photo: Tuomas Nevalainen / Str / Lehtikuva
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All three teenagers who went missing while swimming at Kalajoki’s Hiekkasärkät beach have now been found dead, Finnish police confirmed late Saturday.
The third victim, born in 2008, was discovered around 23:00 by a volunteer dive team and a fishing vessel crew assisting the authorities. The two other boys, both born in 2009, were found drowned on Friday evening.
The three boys had been swimming and playing with a ball on Friday afternoon when they drifted around 100 metres from shore. According to police, they likely encountered a sudden drop-off and were unable to return to shallow water.
Bystanders attempted to reach the boys using stand-up paddleboards, but the rescue efforts were unsuccessful. Emergency services, including the West Finland Coast Guard and the North Ostrobothnia Rescue Department, carried out searches throughout the evening.
Search efforts for the third missing boy were suspended late Friday and resumed on Saturday with additional support. The discovery came as weather conditions worsened, with thunderstorms and limited visibility affecting the area.
The victims were not local residents. Their families have been notified, according to the Oulu Police Department.
“The search was difficult due to the size of the beach area, submerged obstacles and sea currents,” said lead investigator Jan Sormunen earlier on Saturday. “We thank all volunteers who took part in the search.”
The shoreline at Hiekkasärkät features a gradual slope but includes sudden deep spots and soft sand, making it hazardous in places. Authorities have not identified any signs of foul play and are investigating the incident as a case of accidental death.
A memorial site formed at the beach on Saturday night as local residents and holidaymakers lit candles and laid flowers in remembrance.
Crisis support services have been activated. The city of Kalajoki, the regional welfare authority Pohde, and the local parish are providing on-site assistance for those affected. Crisis workers were available throughout the weekend at a local restaurant near the campsite.
Kalajoki parish will hold a memorial service on Sunday at noon. City youth workers are expected to be present.
Support is also available through national helplines including the MIELI mental health service, the Mannerheim League for Child Welfare, and the Church’s crisis phone lines.
Friday’s incident contributed to a day of multiple drownings across Finland. At least four other water-related fatalities were reported in different regions.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
