Tragedy struck in Budva, Montenegro, as 19-year-old Tijana Radonjic died in a parasailing accident. The Serbian student reportedly unbuckled her safety harness mid-flight, plunging 50 meters into the Adriatic Sea. The incident has raised significant safety concerns and prompted an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Key Takeaways
- A 19-year-old student, Tijana Radonjic, died after falling from a parasail in Budva, Montenegro.
- Witnesses reported hearing her scream before she unbuckled her safety belt and fell.
- The incident occurred while she was reportedly filming a promotional video for a local tourist agency.
- Authorities are investigating the cause, with equipment inspections and an autopsy underway.
Tragic Incident Unfolds
On a seemingly ordinary day in Budva, Montenegro, what began as a promotional parasailing flight for 19-year-old Tijana Radonjic turned into a fatal tragedy. Ms. Radonjic, a student from Novi Sad, Serbia, was reportedly soaring at a height of 50 meters when she unbuckled her seatbelt and safety jacket, subsequently falling into the Adriatic Sea. Horrified spectators on the beach reported hearing her screams, including pleas of "Put me down! Put me down!" and "help me," just moments before her fall.
Emergency services quickly responded, but Ms. Radonjic was confirmed dead last Wednesday. The incident has left many questions unanswered and has sparked widespread concern regarding parasailing safety.
Unclear Circumstances and Speculation
The exact circumstances leading to Ms. Radonjic’s decision to unbuckle her harness remain unclear. Initial reports suggest she had agreed to a free parasailing ride in exchange for filming a promotional video to boost tourism. Witnesses stated she appeared happy and relaxed before the flight, showing no fear of heights.
However, local media outlets have presented various theories:
- Panic Attack: Republika reported that she may have suffered a panic attack during the flight.
- Equipment Concern: The tour company owner speculated she might have thought something was wrong with the equipment, or was unaware of the height.
- Suicide Not Ruled Out: While some outlets mentioned suicide had not been ruled out, her loved ones vehemently deny this possibility.
Investigation Underway
Police are actively investigating the death. The owner of the operating tour company expressed shock and sorrow, stating, "We don’t know why she unbuckled her seat belt and harness and jumped out. I guess she didn’t do it consciously, but in a moment of uncontrollable fear." He added that technical inspections of all equipment are underway, and the results of the autopsy are awaited.
Ms. Radonjic’s family and friends have shared heartbreaking tributes, remembering her as a vibrant and loving individual. Her aunt, with whom she was on holiday, posted a poignant message, expressing disbelief and sorrow over the loss. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with adventure tourism and the critical importance of stringent safety protocols.
