Feb 18 • 15:28 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

Doctor goes missing in the Tocantins River during storm in Marabá, Pará

A doctor is missing after entering the Tocantins River during a storm in Marabá, Pará, while trying to help secure a boat.

A doctor named Arlen Martins Rocha has been reported missing since the night of Tuesday, October 17, after he entered the waters of the Tocantins River during a storm in Marabá, located in southeastern Pará. Arlen, who worked in public health units in the municipality, was on a boat trip with friends when strong winds hit the city, prompting the group to moor their vessel at a floating dock near Praia do Tucunaré, a well-known tourist spot. Unfortunately, during the storm, the boat broke free and started drifting away due to the river's current.

Witnesses indicated that one man jumped into the water to try to stabilize the boat while Arlen submerged to assist him. Tragically, he has not been seen since, though the other man managed to climb back aboard and was rescued shortly after. The local Fire Department was alerted the same evening to initiate search efforts, with support from boaters in the area to locate the missing doctor.

The incident underscores the dangers posed by sudden weather changes in regions where water activities are common, especially during stormy seasons. The ongoing search operation not only highlights the urgency of finding Arlen but also raises awareness about safety precautions that should be taken during such excursions, particularly in unpredictable weather conditions.

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