Man (37) dies at Antillean Festivals campsite in Hoogstraten

A 37-year-old man died on Saturday afternoon at the campsite of the Antillean Festivals music festival in Hoogstraten. The victim was found alone and unconscious in his tent. Unfortunately, the immediate response from emergency services, as well as bystanders, was not enough to save the man.

Mayor Tinne Rombouts (Together!) confirmed the situation, calling it a tragic incident. "The man was found quickly, but help came too late," the mayor stated. This made the circumstances at the scene all the more sorrowful.

The man’s death has cast a shadow over the festival, which normally brings a lively atmosphere. Despite the heat and busy schedule, there was a sense of gloom among festival-goers. The Kempen region, where Hoogstraten is located, is known for its high temperatures, contributing to a muggy microclimate during the event.

According to various reports, the response from emergency services was swift. Immediate action was taken to apply resuscitation measures, but these proved to be ineffective. This has raised questions about safety and conditions at the festival site.

The Antillean Festivals attract many visitors each year, and the festival season has kicked off this year in the Kempen. However, the organization has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident and safety at the campsite.

The mayor has described the event as dreadful, emphasizing that such incidents, especially during a festive setting, deeply affect the local community. Further details about the case are currently unknown.