A 14-year-old boy tragically drowned after entering the Millwall Outer Dock near East Ferry Road on the Isle of Dogs in east London. The Metropolitan Police were alerted at approximately 6:48pm on Monday when reports came in of the boy going into the water.
Despite the efforts of emergency services, the boy’s body was recovered from the dock at 10:30pm and he was pronounced dead at the scene. His next-of-kin have been informed and are receiving support from officers.
Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter expressed his condolences, stating, “Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of this young boy at this incredibly difficult time.” He also urged the public to exercise caution during the warm weather, reminding everyone that open water poses serious risks. “Please only swim in designated areas and take the time to speak with children and young people about staying safe around water.”
READ MORE: Van fire in Willenhall spreads to nearby buildings, including former pie factory
The police are treating the death as unexpected but not suspicious. Investigations continue as they prepare a report for the coroner.
London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said, “Sadly, a teenager has drowned following an incident in Blackwall. Firefighters responded to reports of a teenager in the harbour and conducted a thorough search. Despite the best efforts of emergency responders, the teenager was found dead.”
A spokesperson for London Ambulance Service confirmed their attendance shortly after receiving a call at 6:52pm regarding a person in the water at East Ferry Road, E14. Various specialist crews and paramedics attended and supported partners at the scene before being stood down.
This incident adds to a worrying trend amid the hot summer months, as dozens of people have lost their lives in open water across the UK. The Royal Life Saving Society has previously urged the public to “stop and think” before entering open water, particularly due to the number of children involved. Estimates from the Press Association indicate at least 39 deaths have occurred this summer in open-water incidents.
The National Water Safety Forum reported 202 water-related fatalities across the UK last year, with updated data for 2023 expected in May next year.
Earlier this year, a child died after being pulled from open water at London’s Royal Victoria Dock. Emergency services responded to reports on Silvertown Way and recovered the boy, believed to be 13.
In a separate tragedy last month, a seven-year-old boy named Musa Ahmed died following an incident at a beach in West Mersea, Essex. The event also claimed the lives of his teenage cousin, Sameeha Rahman, 15, and her mother, Shelina Rahman, 41, all of whom encountered difficulties while in the water with other family members. Sameeha and Shelina passed away at the scene, while Musa was evacuated to hospital but sadly died a week later.
These incidents underline the importance of vigilance and safety around open water, especially during the warmer months when people are more likely to swim outside of designated areas.