A solitary bunch of flowers has been placed near a bridge at Clifton Country Park in Salford, following the tragic recovery of a 15-year-old boy's body from the River Irwell. The tribute was seen on Tuesday morning, a day after search teams located the teenager's body.
Search Operation Details
A major search operation was launched just before 5pm on Saturday, June 27, after reports of a boy getting into difficulty in the River Irwell. Underwater search teams worked throughout Sunday and Monday, with sniffer dogs also assisting in the search. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the boy had not yet been formally identified, but his family were being supported by specialist officers. Police believe there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
Police Statement and Safety Warning
Detective Inspector Dave Ogden, from Salford CID, said: "Saturday’s incident is truly heart breaking, and my thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of the young boy who has so tragically lost his life. While we are satisfied there are no suspicious circumstances, this incident is an incredibly upsetting reminder of the serious risks associated with open water." He urged the public: "We understand people want to make the most of the warm weather, but we would urge everyone to stay safe and avoid entering reservoirs, rivers, canals or ponds. Please take care and enjoy the weather in a safe way."
Other Water-Related Deaths Over the Weekend
This incident was one of three water-related deaths in Greater Manchester across the weekend. The body of a teenage boy was recovered from Cowbury Reservoir in Stalybridge, Tameside, following a large emergency services response on Saturday evening. On Sunday evening, the body of a woman in her 60s was pulled from water in the Island Lodge area of Tottington, Bury. Emergency crews were called to Mill Street at around 8.20pm, and the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said there were no suspicious circumstances in either case.
