Another cursed Saturday, my son… This is how the heartbreaking letter from the mother of Danijel Petrović, a teenager from Potočac near Paraćin, begins. A month ago, Danijel tragically lost his life by drowning in an artificial lake on the Great Morava river. He was only 17 when he went with friends to cool off, but ended up as yet another victim of summer dangers lurking in seemingly harmless swimming spots.
His mother shares her unbearable pain and grief on social media, posting touching graphics showing her son with angel wings, as well as photos of her children, reminding everyone how much Danijel was loved and how immense the void he left behind is. “My son, it hurts. Your sisters ask about you, and I don’t know what to say…” – words that tear the soul, spreading among the residents of Paraćin and across Serbia.
The tragedy happened on June 7th, when Danijel disappeared beneath the lake’s surface. His friends panicked and searched for him but to no avail. Police divers searched for hours before finding his body, and the autopsy confirmed the worst. The locals and acquaintances mourned the young boy for days; he was a role model, modest and kind.
Danijel’s mother continues to write emotional messages, expressing hope that one day her son will come back, even though she knows it’s impossible. “I know the tears will stop only when my son comes to me…” she writes, facing daily sorrow and an emptiness nothing can fill.
This tragedy is yet another warning for all of us to be careful and not underestimate the dangers lurking at swimming spots, especially for children and youth. Summer days are full of joy but also risks, and the loss of one life is a loss that cannot be replaced.
If you’ve ever been to a place like this lake, remember Danijel and his mother. And maybe, just maybe, take care of those you love. Because life is fragile, and tragedies happen when we least expect them.
Now, if you have a similar story or think you know how to prevent such tragedies, drop a comment below. Let voices be heard, because grief is shared, and attention can save lives.
