Boy tragically dies after getting into trouble in Wellingborough River

A 17-year-old boy tragically drowned in an open water incident in the Midlands during the mini-heatwave. The teenager, identified as Ronalds Abele, was swimming at Wellingborough breakwater in Northamptonshire when he got into trouble.

Despite the quick response of emergency services, who recovered his body from the River Nene and rushed him to hospital, he was sadly pronounced dead. Police confirmed this afternoon that he lost his life after getting into trouble near the blue bridge.

Emergency services, including police, paramedics and fire crews, were alerted just after 1.45pm on Friday following reports of a swimmer in distress. A specialist unit was instrumental in recovering the boy, who was then airlifted to Northampton General Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

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A Northamptonshire Police spokesman said: “A 17-year-old boy from Wellingborough has tragically died following a drowning incident in the town. Police, paramedics and fire crews were called just after 1.45pm yesterday following reports that a teenager was having difficulty swimming in open water. at the embankment.

“Firefighters from Rushden and Irthlingborough and a specialist unit from Mereway recovered the boy and he was airlifted to Northampton General Hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead. Police today named the teenager as Ronalds Abele.

“This was a tragic incident and Ronalds’ family have asked for privacy during this very troubling time.”

Online tributes poured in for the teenager. One person shared: “He will be sadly missed by everyone who is so caring and supportive and always brought a smile to people’s faces.”

Another expressed: “So sad thinking of him, his friends and family at this heartbreaking time.” A tribute read: “We will miss your beaming smile Ronalds, you were such a gentle boy, always ready to help. Thoughts are with all your family and friends at this saddest time.”

Another wrote: “Prayers of comfort to Ronalds colleagues who were with him, the first responders and especially his family. Sad for his family.”