Individual leaps for amusement from Theodor-Heuss-Bridge into the Rhine, Mainz
Headline: Guy Plunges off Rhine Bridge for Kicks, Sparks Mammoth Rescue Effort
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In the heart of Mainz, an impetuous stunt left emergency services baffled as a man leaped from a Rhine bridge under the cloak of darkness, all for a thrill.
Bystanders spotted the daring dive around 0:15 AM on a chilly Monday night and promptly alerted the authorities. Firefighters from Wiesbaden and Mainz, the DLRG Mainz-Kastel, the water police in Mainz and Wiesbaden, all gearing up to scour the Rhine for the Mr.vanishing act artist.
However, the showman had already dog-paddled his way to the shore, and was eventually found lounging at the Open-Air bar "Mainzstrand" near the bridge. He allegedly told witnesses he had taken a plunge for kicks and that a buddy was safeguarding his belongings. The duo subsequently vanished from the scene like a well-timed magic trick.
A Warning on the Perils of Trifling Stunts
Klaus Schniering from the Mainz water police invokes caution, asserting that leaping from the Theodor-Heuss Bridge into the Rhine is no laughing matter, but a potential death sentence. Although the Rhine's current has been rather meek this year, it packs a wallop, Schniering points out. Plus, it's tough to spot your landing spot when the night shadows cloak everything.
A Repeat Performance This Year
Marc Helfmann from the DLRG Mainz-Kastel acknowledges that people have already attempted their aerial acrobatics from the Theodor Bridge this year, either due to daredevilry or under the influence of alcohol. The current around the bridge is a tricky dance, with jumpers often mistakenly underestimating the height and depth. The depth in the fairway plunges a stomach-churning nine meters, while the Mainz side reveals numerous ship moorings lurking just beneath the surface. If caught in one of these icy clutches, you could disappear without a trace.
The Bill for Your Thrill
Alas, the two protagonists disappeared into the night, leaving the authorities no wiser. But if they're apprehended and found guilty of performing acrobatics in the river for diversion or fun, they'll be slapped with an exorbitant bill to cover the mounting rescue costs. The bill ranges wildly depending on the resources deployed and can quickly escalate into a hefty sum, with Michael Ehresmann, the fire department's spokesperson, estimating it could surpass several thousand euros.
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The impetuous stunt performed by the mysterious man on the Rhine bridge was not just a thrill-seeking act, but also a dangerous sport that could potentially be fatal.
Klaus Schniering from the Mainz water police advises against such trifling sports, emphasizing the significance of the Rhine's powerful current and the dangers of jumping into it, especially at night.
