**Woman Dies After Major Rescue Effort in Pontargothi, Carmarthenshire**
A woman has lost her life following a significant emergency incident in a quiet village in Carmarthenshire, spotlighting the efforts of multiple rescue teams called to the River Cothi on Tuesday evening.
The alarm was raised shortly after 5:30pm on 6 May, when Dyfed-Powys Police alerted emergency services to reports of a person in the river near Pontargothi, a rural village situated approximately seven miles east of Carmarthen. The area to the north of the village, near a section of the River Cothi, was promptly cordoned off as emergency services arrived.
In response to the call, two fire engines and two rescue boats, along with crew members from Carmarthen and Llandeilo Fire Stations, arrived on the scene. The highly-trained Swift Water Rescue Team was also dispatched, exemplifying the gravity of the situation and the risks posed by the fast-moving river waters.
Tragically, despite the concerted efforts of all involved, a woman was recovered from the river. Paramedics at the scene did everything possible, but she was pronounced dead a short time later. Police have confirmed that her next of kin have been informed, and that the death is not being treated as suspicious.
A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police provided a statement on Wednesday, saying, “We are investigating the circumstances around the death of a woman in the Pontargothi area. Emergency services attended the area at around 5.30pm on 6 May. Her next of kin are aware. The death is not being treated as suspicious at this time. A report will be prepared for HM Coroner.”
Representatives of the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service shared further details, highlighting the speed and coordination of the emergency response. “At 5.41pm on Tuesday, crews from Carmarthen and Llandeilo Fire Stations were called to an incident in Pontargothi. Crews responded following reports of a person in the River Cothi and the Swift Water Rescue Team was mobilised. One female casualty was removed from the water. Dyfed-Powys Police is investigating the circumstances around the death of the woman.”
The serene rivers and rural beauty of Carmarthenshire attract both residents and visitors, but incidents such as this are a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with open water, even in familiar surroundings. The facts surrounding what led to the woman entering the river are not yet known, and police have indicated that a thorough investigation will take place, with findings to be reported to the Coroner.
Such tragedies bring the spotlight onto the vital service that local emergency teams provide day in, day out, often in remote and challenging conditions. The rapid mobilisation and professionalism shown by everyone involved display the strength of collaboration among emergency agencies in rural Wales.
As the investigation continues, the community of Pontargothi and the wider Carmarthenshire area have been left in shock by the incident. Support networks have been offered to those affected, reminding locals that help is available to anyone struggling in the aftermath of such a traumatic event.
The authorities have asked for privacy for the grieving family while the official investigation moves forward. No further information about the identity of the woman has yet been released by the police.
This incident reiterates the importance of respecting water safety advice, remaining vigilant near rivers and being mindful of the unpredictable dangers that can arise. Carmarthenshire emergency services continue their work, ensuring the safety of their communities even in the most difficult circumstances.