On Friday, rescuers managed to recover the body of a woman who had driven into the Daugava the day before, on Thursday, near the November 11th waterfront. It has now been revealed who the deceased was.
On Thursday evening, a car coming from the Cable Bridge made a sharp maneuver and drove into the water from the pier for pleasure boats. Arriving rescuers saw the car rapidly sinking. For several hours, specialists surveyed the bottom using sonar and conducted diving operations, but they had to suspend their efforts until morning. On Friday, the car was found, but it has not yet been raised from the riverbed. The circumstances of the tragedy will be investigated as part of the ongoing inquiry.
On Saturday, it became known that the deceased woman was 38-year-old Ilona Jaukule, a paramedic with the Emergency Medical Service. She had spent many years helping people in the most difficult situations, saving lives and working where human pain and risk are encountered daily.
Sadursme.lv reports that now her own family needs help. Ilona left behind two young daughters.
The text under the donation announcement reads: "Ilona Jaukule — an ambulance employee, colleague, mother, friend, and a person with a huge heart — tragically passed away. For many years, Ilona worked in the Emergency Medical Service, selflessly helping others, saving lives, and performing demanding duties that required both courage and deep humanity. To alleviate the financial burden associated with this tragedy, we urge you to support the fundraising for Ilona's funeral, farewell ceremony, and other related expenses. This is our opportunity to say thank you to Ilona for her work, her contribution to the ambulance service, the lives she saved, and all the good she brought to the world. Every donation — big or small — is a meaningful support and a sincere expression of respect for Ilona's memory. Thank you to everyone who helps during this difficult time."
