Child Killed at Sea in Arcachon: Fisherman Tests Positive for Cocaine and Cannabis

A tragedy unfolded on Wednesday, May 21, off La Teste-de-Buch in the Arcachon Basin (Gironde) when an 8-year-old child, learning to sail on a small dinghy called an Optimist, was violently struck by a fishing boat. Despite rapid emergency response by land, sea, and air, the child could not be resuscitated and died at the scene from cardiac arrest.

The collision, described as extremely violent, completely destroyed the small sailboat. Around fifteen children and several supervisors on the water witnessed the accident. A psychological emergency unit was immediately deployed to support those affected by the shock.

Fisherman Admits Drug Use the Night Before

The professional fisherman, 30 years old and residing in Arcachon, was apprehended shortly after the accident. During custody, he admitted to having consumed cannabis and cocaine the night before. Toxicology tests confirmed his drug use. He also acknowledged exceeding the speed limit of five knots (approximately 9.2 km/h) in this busy coastal area despite limited visibility caused by drizzle and sea spray.

Previously convicted three times for drug-related offenses, the man was presented to an investigating judge on Friday. The Bordeaux prosecutor’s office has opened a judicial investigation for involuntary manslaughter and drug use, requesting his provisional detention. He faces up to five years in prison and a €75,000 fine. His boat has been seized and placed under seal.

Investigation Ongoing to Clarify Circumstances

Investigators are now working to determine the exact circumstances of the collision and the role that drug use may have played in this rare maritime tragedy in the Arcachon Basin.