Outpouring of grief over tragic death of Saudi doctor, son in Switzerland

Published: 4 July 2024

NT Bureau
Doha

The tragic deaths of a renowned Saudi doctor and his son in Switzerland have caused an outpouring of grief and condolences on the social media, with the mainstream newspapers, including in Qatar, prominently covering the news.

Dr. Abdullah Al Enazi, renowned for his work as head of the research unit and professor of respiratory therapy at the King Saud bin Abdul Aziz for Health Sciences’ Applied Medical Sciences Faculty, died while attempting to rescue his two-year-old son who had slipped into a waterfall south of the Swiss Alps while on a family visit to Switzerland.

His wife and daughter, who witnessed the heartbreaking event, recounted the harrowing moments as they unfolded before them.
 Swiss authorities launched a massive search operation, leading to the recovery of Dr. Al Enazi’s body while efforts continue to find his son.

The bereaved wife, Fatma Al Enazi, shared that the day of the tragedy began unexpectedly, with her husband’s insistence on visiting the falls, located just a short drive from their residence.

Despite her initial reservations, Fatma ensured the location was safe for children before they set off, sources reported.
Tragically, while enjoying the scenery and capturing photos, their young son lost his footing and fell into the water, followed by his father in a desperate attempt to save him.

Overcome with grief, Fatma and her daughter screamed for help from others present at the scene.
 Amer Al Enazi, Dr. Al Enazi’s brother, recalled how someone at the site contacted the Saudi embassy in Switzerland to report the incident.

Eventually, Dr. Al Enazi’s body was repatriated for burial, leaving a profound void in both his family and the medical community he served with dedication.





The incident was received with shock and grief on social media platforms, as tweeters expressed their sadness and regret for the deceased, and paid tribute to Dr. Abdullah Al-Anazi with words of farewell and respect, pointing to his noble qualities and dedication to scientific work.

The tragedy also brought attention to the fact that a pleasure trip during a vacation can turn deadly.