Firefighters successfully removed a van from the sea in the town of Trieste, Italy, on May 20.

There were no occupants in the vehicle at the time of the incident.

Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy - May 20, 2024

In a coordinated effort between the Coast Guard and the Fire Department's Underwater Rescue Unit in Trieste, a van was successfully retrieved from the waters near Pier VI of the New Free Zone of Trieste earlier today, around 11:30 a.m.

The operation, supported by a crane from the central headquarters of the Trieste Fire Department and the SAR Patrol Boat CP881, was initiated following reports of a vehicle plunging into the sea due to a malfunction in its parking mechanisms. Fortunately, there were no occupants in the vehicle at the time of the incident.

With assistance from the Port Authority and Trieste Port Services, rescue personnel swiftly mobilized to the scene. Divers from the Fire Department plunged into the water and, after a brief search, located the vehicle resting at a depth of approximately 19 meters and about fifty meters from the pier.

Using a lifting balloon, divers secured the vehicle and inflated it with air, allowing it to float to the surface. The Coast Guard's Patrol Boat then towed the partially submerged vehicle near the quayside, where firefighters attached it to the crane. With precision and efficiency, the vehicle was lifted from the water and placed safely on the pier.