Father deceives McDonald's excursion and ends in a dramatic tragedy

Father deceives McDonald's excursion and ends in a dramatic tragedy

A shocking incident occurred in the Netherlands, in which a father, Klaas Bijl (67), and his two children, Jeffrey (10) and Emma (8), were discovered in one canal. According to Kosmo , Bijl deliberately led his car into the waters. The children's bodies were recovered on May 20, 2025, just a few days after the family was reported as missing. Before the tragic incident, Bijl had promised a trip to McDonald’s, but his intentions were anything but harmless.

The police had searched for Bijl and his children after they were reported missing on May 17, 2025. The extensive search included the use of dog squadrons, drones and helicopters. The investigators suspect that BIJL should have the children with him at the weekend because the parents' parents lived separately. The last time Bijl was seen in a arcade in Germany before picking up his children and getting into the fatal Situation.

examinations and results of the investigation

The autopsy of the late children and their father showed that the children were very likely drowned. Bijl had left a farewell letter that confirmed his intention of an extended suicide. According to news.de Precarious conditions, his house was described as a junkyard, and he apparently had alcohol problems. There is now a large sympathy in the region, and so far 57,000 euros have been collected for the bereaved.

This tragic incident throws a light on the dark reality of suicide and mental illnesses. According to BMFSFJ , suicide is the most common cause of death in young people in Germany. Around 500 young people take their lives every year. Frequent triggers are fears and worries that can lead to suicidal thoughts. Talking offers and advice are essential to help affected children and adolescents. Various offers of help are provided in Germany, including the "number against Kummer" and the "Youth Notmail", which should offer young people in crises.

It remains unclear whether Klaas Bijl ever looked for or received professional help, which seems all the more tragic considering the situation. The case not only shakes the families concerned, but also raises questions about the support mechanisms for fathers in crisis situations.