A top executive of one of the world's largest pizza restaurant chain has tragically died in a snorkeling accident. Reports published over the weekend revealed that the chief financial officer of Domino's UK unit, David Bauernfeind, died in an accident on December 26 while he was on holiday with his family.
The multinational pizza franchise, which was founded in 1960, released a brief statement confirming the reports. The company's UK unit did not disclose any other details regarding the incident but local media reports had revealed that Bauernfeind was on vacation in Mauritius with his wife and daughter.
Bauernfeind, along with his wife Nicolette and his daughter Ornella arrived in Mauritius on December 19, enjoying the island's various activities and establishments. The 51-year old executive, who joined Domino's in 2018 as its CFO, was reportedly snorkeling around 150 feet from the shore of the island's upscale Belle Mare section.
For yet to be determined reasons, Bauernfeind had drowned. The captain of a yacht that passed by the area reportedly discovered Bauernfeind's body floating in a lagoon off Belle Mare on Thursday last week.
Bauernfeind's body immediately brought to the Victoria Hospital in Candos. The executive was pronounced dead on arrival and an autopsy was immediately ordered to determine the cause of death. It was later revealed that Bauernfeind had died of asphyxiation caused by drowning.
Domino's CEO David Wild mentioned in the company's statement that everyone had been deeply shocked and saddened by Bauernfeind's death. Wild further stated that the company sends its heartfelt sympathies to Bauernfeind's family and friends.
Wild stated that Bauernfeind was well liked and respected by his colleagues, mainly for his dedication and the hard work he has put in during his tenure with the company. The CEO continued that everyone at Domino's will undoubtedly miss his presence and his death is a tragic the loss for the company as well.
Prior to working for Domino's, Bauernfeind had worked for a number of big-name firms across Europe as a chartered accountant. According to his online profile, Bauernfeind had previously worked for companies such as Connect Group PLC as its CFO, Xchanging, WH Smith, and Gooch & Housego. Bauernfeind was Domino's fourth CFO in four years.
The executive joined the company as it continues its global expansion, entering new markets around the world. As of March 2019, the company had 16,000 stores worldwide. Last year, the company managed to rake in revenues of more than $3.34 billion.
