LYON, June 25 – Kenzo Kies, a 21-year-old professional footballer, has tragically passed away after a drowning incident in the Rhône River near Lyon on Monday. Kies, who had previously been part of AS Saint-Étienne’s training academy, was pronounced brain dead at the hospital following the rescue efforts.
Tragic Drowning Incident Near Lyon
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon in a prohibited swimming area near Lyon, specifically at Caluire-et-Cuire. Kies was rescued from the water in critical condition and immediately transported to the hospital, where he was later declared brain dead. The news of his passing was confirmed on Wednesday evening by his current club, En Avant Guingamp.
“En Avant Guingamp has learned with great sadness of the passing of Kenzo Kies, a young player at the club. A Guingampais since last summer, he played this season with the reserve team,” the Breton club announced in a statement on its social media channels.
The incident took place around 6:00 PM on Monday, with temperatures soaring to 38°C. Emergency services were called to the Feyssine Park area, located between Villeurbanne and Caluire-et-Cuire, where four young men were bathing in a section of the river known for its currents. Three of Kies’s friends were able to get out of the water before the firefighters arrived and were treated for minor injuries. Kies, however, was found in the process of drowning and required immediate resuscitation.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Kenzo Kies began his football journey in Lyon before spending a season with AS Saint-Priest (2017-2018). He then joined the prestigious AS Saint-Étienne training center, where he spent seven years.
“A resident of the Robert-Herbin Sports Centre for seven years, a talented player and a discreet young man appreciated by all, Kenzo Kies lost his life in dramatic circumstances,” stated AS Saint-Étienne in their tribute.
Last summer, Kies signed with the reserve team of En Avant Guingamp. However, his time with the club was hampered by numerous injuries, limiting his playing time. The AS Saint-Étienne club also extended its condolences and support to Kies’s family and loved ones.
“Stéphanois for seven years, Kenzo Kies faces a moment of immense gravity, accompanied by his loved ones,” the club wrote on X. “Particularly affected by this tragedy, AS Saint-Étienne wishes to express all its support and affection to his family. Kenzo, all the Green People are thinking of you.”
Rising Drowning Incidents Amidst Heatwave
This tragic event occurs amidst an exceptional heatwave gripping France, which has led to a significant increase in drowning incidents. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu reported on Tuesday that the heatwave has caused “40 deaths” by drowning since June 18, primarily among young people. This alarming statistic highlights concerns about the adequacy of swimming surveillance, particularly in unauthorized areas, during periods of extreme heat.
The authorities continue to urge caution and adherence to safety regulations, especially in areas where swimming is prohibited due to dangerous currents or other hazards. The incident involving Kenzo Kies serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with open water swimming, particularly during hot weather conditions.
The local community and the football world mourn the loss of a promising young talent. Investigations into the exact circumstances of the drowning are ongoing.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/lyon_69123/kenzo-kies-jeune-footballeur-qui-s-est-noye-dans-le-rhone-pres-de-lyon-est-mort_64452685.html
