Karl Holland, an 18-year-old from Oldham, has been identified as the teenager who died at Dovestone Reservoir on Friday evening, July 10. Emergency services were called to the popular beauty spot in Saddleworth at around 7pm after reports of a person in difficulty. Karl was found unresponsive in the water and, despite paramedics' efforts, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Tributes to a 'Kindhearted, Beautiful Boy'
Friends and family have flooded social media with heartfelt tributes. Karl's mother, Laura, died four years ago from a brain hemorrhage, and he stepped up to care for his younger sister after they moved in with their grandparents. He also leaves an older sister.
Jaime Smith, whose daughter Kyla is friends with Karl's sister, said: "We're all just in shock, we can't believe it's happened." Kyla added: "Karl was so loved by so many. He always looked after his little sister when they lost their mum four years ago. He always loved life with his friends and was deeply loved by his family and friends. Karl will forever be loved and never forgotten. He was such a bubbly happy boy. May Karl rest easy with his mam."
Naomi Rowbotham commented: "He was a young boy who just loved to have fun and laugh with his friends. He was a good friend to my little brother. He was a good kid and so polite. His mum will be waiting at the gates for [him]. Sleep tight kid, gone way too soon. Please be mindful when swimming in open waters."
Friend Remembers Karl as 'Life and Soul'
Friend Faye Louise said: "Karl, what do I even say? You were the most kind-hearted, beautiful boy. You shouldn't have been taken away from us all so soon. I'm absolutely heartbroken, as is everyone else. Back with your mum now, kid. I know she would have welcomed you up there with open arms. Rest easy our boy, love you."
Another friend, who asked not to be named, added: "Karl was the life and soul of any and every party. He'd lift the mood the second he walked into the room with his big smile and his long curly hair. His mum passed away a few years ago and she - alongside his sisters and nan - were his entire world. He'd often go to his nana's garden and have a moment with his mum's memorial area before nights out. Karl feared nothing in life and saw everything as an adventure. He will be massively missed by everyone that knew or got to be in his presence. Rest peacefully with your mum. Have a dance with her and give her the biggest cuddle you're back where your heart longed to be."
Paige Lily said: "He was a loving son and brother - a good friend to many with a heart of gold." Teigan O'Brien wrote: "Back with your mam now Karl. Rest easy mate."
Police Warn of Open Water Dangers
Detective Inspector Steven Horton of Greater Manchester Police said: "Our thoughts remain with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. 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."
Police are conducting extensive enquiries to establish the full circumstances of the incident. Karl's death is one of several open-water tragedies across Greater Manchester and the UK during the recent hot weather.
