Head of Village in Gunungkidul Dies After Saving Student KKN

WONOSARI - Courage and concern for others are the last legacy of the Head of Sempon Wetan Village, Semanu Kapanewon, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Wahyu Ristanto (25). He died on Wednesday, February 18 after saving two female students of the Ahmad Dahlan University Practical Work (KKN) who drowned in the Ngreneng River.

The heroic event occurred at around 12.20 WIB, when Wahyu was accompanying student participants in the KKN to survey the location. Two female students who were swimming in the river were suddenly swept away by the strong current.

Without hesitation, Wahyu immediately plunged in to provide assistance to them. He then managed to evacuate the two female students to the riverbank.

"Pak Dukuh showed extraordinary courage. He managed to evacuate the two students to the edge, but unfortunately, after making sure they were safe, Pak Dukuh was exhausted and dragged by the current," said Semanu Police Chief, AKP Pudjijono, Thursday, February 19.

Wahyu is known as a young village head who is active and quick to help the community. Sempon Wetan residents remember him as a figure who is always present when needed.

"Mr. Wahyu is always present when the residents need it. This incident shows how big his heart and dedication to others," said one of the residents of Sempon Wetan.

After the incident, the police along with residents carried out an evacuation and took Wahyu to Pelita Husada Hospital. However, he was declared dead on arrival at the hospital.

The families, communities, and KKN students who were successfully rescued expressed deep condolences and respect for Wahyu Ristanto's courage.