Singer Ben Saunders, who was the first person in the world to win the singing reality TV show 'The Voice', has been found dead in a recreational lake near the city of Arnhem in the Netherlands. He was 43 years old.
Dutch authorities announced that they recovered Saunders' body from the Rijkerswoerdse Plassen lake approximately 2 hours into an extensive search operation on Tuesday. Saunders had been reported missing earlier that day after emergency services received a report of a swimmer failing to resurface.
A multi-agency response was launched, deploying police officers, divers, helicopters, search dogs, and rescue boats. Officials confirmed that the body was located at approximately 12:20 pm. Police investigators stated there were no signs of foul play, with further details to be released as they become available.
Confirming the tragedy on Instagram, his brother Dean Saunders posted an emotional tribute: "Today my little brother passed away," adding that he had never experienced such grief.
Saunders first rose to international prominence during the inaugural season of 'The Voice of Holland' in 2010, clinching the title in January 2011 with nearly 60% of the public vote.