Tragedy on Sutvid: Czech Hiker Dies
HGSS Station Makarska had two interventions in the same area in less than 24 hours. In the second operation, despite the rescuers' efforts, the life of a Czech national could not be saved.
HGSS Station Makarska had two interventions in the same area in less than 24 hours. In the second operation, despite the rescuers' efforts, the life of a Czech national could not be saved.
Two Czech nationals set out on Wednesday, August 6, 2026, towards the summit of Sutvid hill near Makarska, despite extremely high temperatures. During their descent, they ran out of water, and one of the hikers suddenly fell ill, reported the HGSS Station Makarska on their Facebook page.
Upon receiving the report, eight rescuers were immediately dispatched to the scene. "Upon reaching the victim, the rescuers immediately began resuscitation procedures, but despite all efforts, unfortunately, his life could not be saved," the HGSS announced.
This was not the first drama on Sutvid in a short period. "This is the second intervention by HGSS Station Makarska in the Sutvid area in less than 24 hours. After last night's successfully completed rescue operation of a dehydrated hiker, today we received another call from the same area," the statement reads. Last night's operation, on August 5, ended successfully, but today's event had a tragic outcome.
Following the tragedy, HGSS Station Makarska once again raised the issue of the emergency air transport system. "This tragedy once again highlights the importance of establishing an effective helicopter rescue system with the capability to extract victims using a winch," they emphasized.
They added: "In mountainous areas, where access is extremely difficult, the ability for a medical team to arrive quickly and for emergency air transport can be crucial and, in some cases, significantly increase the chances of survival. This is precisely why the question is being reopened as to why such a system is still not fully operational and why it is only discussed after such tragedies, instead of being the standard."
HGSS took this opportunity to warn all mountain enthusiasts. "This tragic event serves as a reminder of how dangerous summer hiking tours can be during periods of extreme heat. We call on all visitors to Biokovo not to underestimate the mountain, to set out on tours only with appropriate equipment and sufficient amounts of water, and to avoid moving during the hottest part of the day."
At the end of the statement, HGSS Station Makarska expressed their condolences: "We extend our sincere and deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased."
