A foreign tourist in his 60s had his leg amputated during a rescue operation after it became trapped in rocks on Tasmania’s Franklin River, Australian police reported.
The incident occurred on Friday while the man was kayaking with friends through a treacherous section of the river. His smart watch alerted emergency services, initiating a rescue mission that lasted over 20 hours.
Despite extensive efforts, rescuers were unable to free his leg. With his condition worsening and partially submerged in freezing water, the man was sedated, and his leg was amputated on Saturday.
Police spokesperson Doug Oosterloo described the operation as “extremely challenging,” emphasizing that every possible attempt was made to free the man before resorting to the difficult decision.
The man was airlifted to Royal Hobart Hospital and remains in critical condition.
