Tragic Līgo Holiday Weekend: Fatalities and Drunk Driving Reported

A young man died in a traffic accident in Balvu novads on June 23, 2026, during Līgo holiday celebrations, while 16 other people were injured in various traffic incidents, according to reports from tv3.lv and Lente.lv.

The fatality occurred during the Līgo holiday evening, which tv3.lv described as a tragic event for the Balvu novads region. Lente.lv reported that the broader holiday period saw a total of 16 injuries resulting from road accidents.

Law enforcement and emergency services dealt with a surge in public safety incidents across the country. Diena reported that dozens of drivers were stopped while operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol during the festivities.

Beyond road accidents, tv3.lv reported several drownings in bodies of water during the holiday period. The outlet characterized these events as the “dark side” of the Līgo celebrations.

The news agency nra described the 24-hour window surrounding the holiday as “dramatic” due to the combination of the fatal crash and the number of casualties.

While Lente.lv focused on the specific count of 16 traffic injuries, tv3.lv provided a broader view of the danger, linking the tragedies to both intoxicated driving and water-related accidents.

Authorities have not released the specific identity of the deceased man or the exact cause of the crash in Balvu novads as of June 25, 2026.