The victim was a Russian woman resident in Gran Canaria. Local news reports say that she was swimming about 25 metres offshore at Cueva Laya beach, a popular windsurfing spot just south of Arinaga port. 

It appears that she was not using a dive buoy and strayed into the windsurf area before being hit by a Swedish windsurfer moving at high speed.

Reports indicate that she suffered massive neck injuries and died on  the shore despite receiving first aid and medical attention.

The local police have stated that they are treating the incident as a tragic accident. 

Take precautions when swimming

You are obliged by law to tow a dive buoy with a flag as soon as you move outside of designated swimming areas in Gran Canaria. This allows surfers, jet skis and boats to see you from a distance and change course. This is vital as it is impossible for fast craft and windsurfers to stop instantly.

A dive buoy is particularly important if you are snorkelling or diving and likely to pop up without prior warning.

We would advise everybody swimming outside roped off swimming areas to tow a dive buoy wear a brightly coloured rash vest, and to stay well clear of busy boat lanes and windsurfing areas.