An 18-year-old man has died after getting into difficulties at Dovestone reservoir in Saddleworth, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 7pm on Friday, 10 July 2026, and the teenager was found unresponsive in the water. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police investigation and safety warning
Detective Inspector Steven Horton said: 'We have tragically recovered the body of an 18-year-old man from the water and are conducting extensive enquiries to establish the full circumstances. Our thoughts remain with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.' He added: 'I would like to take this opportunity to remind the public of the dangers of open water. We strongly encourage people to stay safe and refrain from entering large bodies of water including reservoirs, rivers, canals, or ponds. Your safety is our priority. Please look after yourselves and enjoy the weather safely.'
A cordon remains in place at the scene as enquiries continue. Witnesses reported a major emergency services presence at the popular Saddleworth beauty spot, including several police cars, fire engines, ambulances, and an air ambulance.
Second water death in 24 hours
This tragedy follows the death of a 49-year-old man who got into difficulty at Sykes reservoir at Alexandra Park in the Edgeley area of Stockport on Thursday night. That incident also resulted in a fatality, marking two water-related deaths in Greater Manchester within 24 hours.
In a separate incident on Friday evening, a major search operation was launched at Chorlton Water Park after reports that several people were 'struggling' in the water. Firefighters and two specialist water rescue units carried out a full sweep of the lake. After a 40-minute search, it emerged that all individuals had left the water before emergency services arrived.
Ongoing safety concerns
Authorities continue to urge the public to exercise caution around open water, especially during warm weather. Reservoirs, rivers, canals, and ponds can pose hidden dangers such as cold water shock, strong currents, and underwater obstacles. Greater Manchester Police have reiterated their call for people to avoid entering such bodies of water and to enjoy the weather safely.
