An inquest has opened into the death of 16-year-old Iretomiwa Abiodun Micheal, known as Tomiwa, who died after getting into difficulties at Swanholme Lakes in Lincoln on July 9. He was pulled from the water and rushed to hospital, but died at 8.50pm that evening.
Inquest details
Coroner Paul Smith opened the inquest at the Myle Cross Centre in Lincoln on Wednesday, July 22. The hearing was told: "His death was confirmed on July 9 this year at Lincoln County Hospital. He had been taken to Lincoln County Hospital having been pulled from Swanholme Lakes in Lincoln where it appears he got into difficulties in the water."
A post-mortem examination was carried out by Dr Melanie Levy. The exact medical cause of death remains to be established as toxicology investigations continue. A provisional cause of death has been given as 1A, drowning. The inquest has been adjourned until January 8, 2027.
Family tribute
A family tribute shared by Lincolnshire Police described Tomiwa as "a vibrant, energetic, and unforgettable young man whose presence illuminated every space he entered". The tribute added: "A true social butterfly, Tomiwa made friends effortlessly and was kind to everyone he met. He consistently sought the good of others and uplifted those around him. His home was filled with laughter because of his unique spirit, infectious joy, and generous heart."
Tomiwa was hailed as "a committed student with a promising future" and had an "extraordinary" passion for football, playing for Greenbank FC and Lincoln City FC, where he never missed a training session or match.
Funeral and safety measures
Lincolnshire Co-op confirmed that Tomiwa's funeral service will be held at 1pm on Wednesday, July 22 at Alive Lincoln Central, followed by a committal at 2.30pm at Long Leys Cemetery. This tragedy comes weeks after 15-year-old Declan Sawyer died after getting into difficulty in the water on May 24.
In response, wardens will now patrol areas such as Swanholme Lakes and other open spaces, focusing on open water safety and preventing fires in woodlands. The City of Lincoln Council's trial programme began on Friday, July 17, with two wardens equipped with flotation devices patrolling the area, continuing until October.
