Two villages in the Imathia region of northern Greece have been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of 18-year-old Katerina, who disappeared during a walk at the scenic Dermata waterfalls near Veria. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, 27 August 2026 — the day before her 18th birthday, a milestone she had chosen to celebrate in her family’s hometown of Rizomata, Veria, where she was staying with her grandmother.
A Day That Turned Tragic
Katerina, a resident of Athens, had decided to spend this meaningful day close to her roots. Accompanied by her 17-year-old boyfriend, she visited the Dermata waterfalls — a picturesque and popular natural attraction known for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters. She shared photos from the outing on social media, images that would tragically become her final digital footprint.
According to initial accounts, the two had entered and exited the lake’s waters several times without incident. At one point, Katerina handed her mobile phone to her boyfriend, asking him to take some photos. Moments later, she suddenly fell into the water. Initially mistaking it for playful behavior, he quickly realized something was gravely wrong — but his attempts to pull her out were unsuccessful.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Her boyfriend immediately dialed 112. Rescue teams arrived swiftly: 12 firefighters from the Macedonidos Volunteer Fire Brigade and the Veria Fire Department, along with four divers from the 2nd EMAK Underwater Rescue Unit, joined the operation. Despite their efforts, Katerina was found unconscious in the water. Her lifeless body was transferred by EKAB ambulance for forensic examination; an autopsy is pending to determine the precise cause of death.
Authorities are investigating two primary possibilities: a seizure linked to pre-existing epilepsy — which Katerina reportedly managed — or cold-water immersion leading to cardiac arrest. The water temperature at the site was notably low, increasing the physiological risk.
The 17-year-old boyfriend has already given a formal statement to investigators. His mobile phone has been seized to retrieve the final photographs taken moments before the incident.