Man Dies Following Altercation Sparked by Snowballs
A 60-year-old man from Schiedam has died after a confrontation that reportedly began when snowballs were thrown at his car. The incident occurred on Monday at the Nieuwland metro station in the Dutch city.
Emergency services rushed to the scene but were unable to resuscitate the man. Two teenage boys, reportedly aged 16 and 17, have been arrested in connection with his death.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Dutch police identified the teenagers from security camera footage and are currently questioning them to establish their exact role. In a statement, authorities said, "A fight may have broken out after snowballs were thrown, and blows were exchanged."
They added that "the investigation is ongoing to determine exactly what they did or said." According to local media outlet Rijnmond, police believe youths were lobbing snowballs at passing vehicles. The victim is said to have made comments about this before coming under attack.
The exact cause of the man's death has not yet been determined by investigators.
Wintry Weather Blankets the Region
The tragic event took place as the Netherlands, like much of Western Europe, grapples with significant wintry weather. The country has been blanketed in snow, causing widespread transport chaos and disruptions.
This incident highlights how seemingly playful winter activities can have unforeseen and devastating consequences, leading to a major police investigation in Schiedam.
