Anthony Yates
A 22-year-old YouTuber is missing after he stood in the runoff of a waterfall in India. Strong currents swept the man off his feet and away from his friends, who could only stand and watch.
Videos by Rare
What happened: According to a report by the New Indian Express, the YouTuber was swept away while recording at the Duduma waterfall in Koraput. The outlet explains that police have identified the man as Sagar Kundu.
- Authorities say he visited the waterfall with his friends on August 23 to record short videos for his channel. The group allegedly warned him about the rising water level, but he ignored their advice and walked in.
- The police told New Indian Express in a statement, “Suddenly, there was a surge due to water being released from the Machkund dam. Kundu was swept away by the strong currents, and those at the spot tried to rescue him but failed.”
Terrifying Footage Of The Incident Has Surfaced Online
The New Indian Express shared footage of Kundu losing his footing and getting dragged away by the water.
The YouTuber stands in the fast-moving water as at least five people keep to the rocks. The water appears to rise suddenly, and Kundu’s friends scream as he loses his balance and thrashes against the flow. He vanishes from view moments later.
Challenging terrain: Machkund Police Station inspector in charge, Madhusudan Bhoi, said a search operation was underway. However, he admitted the rescue was difficult owing to rocky terrain and constant rainfall.
- Bhoi also noted to the New Indian Express that authorities had recovered a bag of batteries and other equipment. Investigators believe Kundu threw it into the water moments before he fell. A fire officer told the outlet they asked the dam authorities to close the reservoir gates to aid their search.
Earlier this month, a man from California got stuck behind a waterfall near Sequoia National Park. He had planned to rappel down the “Seven Teacups” waterfalls, but ended up getting stuck behind them for two days. He told authorities that the force of the water forced him off his rappel lines, trapping him.
Rescue teams used drones to sweep the area to locate the man, and a helicopter crew transported him to safety. Despite his extended stay, the man escaped with minor injuries and dehydration.
