Jody Brown, a vibrant mum-of-five, tragically lost her life after drowning in the canal at Wolverhampton Street, Walsall, in the early hours of Sunday, May 3. Despite immediate efforts, emergency services were unable to save her, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
West Midlands Police have confirmed that Jody’s death is not being treated as suspicious and the case will be referred to the coroner for further investigation.
In the aftermath of this heartbreaking loss, Jody’s family has called on local authorities to take swift action by installing safety barriers around the canal basin to protect others from similar incidents. Her brother, Paul Clarke, shared with the BBC that CCTV footage shows Jody walking along the canal’s edge before she fell into the water. He added, “I don’t think she could swim.”
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The canal has a history of accidents, especially when duckweed—a thick, grass-like pond weed—covers the water’s surface during warm weather. However, the Canal & River Trust has confirmed that no duckweed has been present in the basin this year.
Paul Clarke has launched an online petition urging Walsall Council to implement immediate safety measures. He emphasized, “Walsall Canal is a cherished place for the community, but it’s also a location with a tragic record of accidental drownings. We want to prevent any more families from suffering like ours.”
He highlighted that many canals across the UK have successfully reduced accidents by installing fencing and barriers, especially in busy or high-risk areas. “This is a practical step that can save lives,” he said.
Walsall Council expressed their condolences to Jody’s family and acknowledged the ongoing internal inquiry by the Canal & River Trust. A spokesperson said the council will collaborate closely with the Trust to explore suitable safety improvements. They noted that open water safety is maintained through design, signage, safety equipment, and targeted interventions and that canals are traditionally left unenclosed to allow public access and navigation.
The Canal & River Trust confirmed its commitment to support the coroner’s investigation and revealed they have already installed throw lines and updated signage around the basin as part of recent safety efforts. They also emphasized the complexities surrounding fencing, as safe access for boaters and emergency rescue operations must be preserved.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Jody’s family with funeral expenses, with over £600 raised so far towards the £800 goal. Organiser Nina Patterson described Jody as a “bubbly young lady” whose loss has deeply affected the community.