A certified diving excursion at the renowned Lighthouse Reef in Belize took a tragic turn this week when a U.S. tourist lost his life during the outing.
Local authorities confirmed that the incident occurred around 8:00 a.m., during a guided dive led by 70-year-old Belizean dive master John Garraway. The experienced guide, based in Belize City, was overseeing a group of 18 certified divers at the time.
Fellow divers noticed one participant, 45-year-old Sagar Dhanasekhar from North Carolina, unresponsive and floating in the water approximately 40 yards from the dive vessel. Immediate rescue efforts were launched, and CPR was administered in hopes of reviving him. Unfortunately, Dhanasekhar was later pronounced dead at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City.
According to initial reports, there were no visible signs of trauma or foul play. Authorities have stated that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the cause of death, as the investigation remains ongoing.
Lighthouse Reef, known for its stunning Blue Hole and rich marine biodiversity, is a popular dive destination among recreational and professional divers worldwide. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks associated with ocean diving, even for experienced participants.
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