Diving accident kills Malta man

XEMXIJA BAY, Malta (11 Sep 2008) — People who knew Frank Baldacchino described him as a quite and reserved man who smiled a lot and made everyone happy.
Yesterday, rescuers found his body in Paradise Bay two days after he was reported missing.
Baldacchino, 43, was an engineer who enjoyed competitive free-diving, an extreme sport that revolves around depth records and product endorsements.
Authorities said Baldacchino died while free-diving and may have been a victim of shallow water blackout.
When he failed to return on Monday, relatives notified rescue officials who immediately launched a full-scale search with a helicopter, a patrol boat and divers.
Baldacchino's body was found at about 7am on Wednesday morning.


"It is a big loss for us. He was a trustworthy person, very thoughtful and methodical," colleague Paul Montanaro told reporters.