The family of a 16-year-old boy who died after an incident at a lake have remembered him for his 'generous heart'. Iretomiwa Abiodun Micheal was recovered from water on July 9 following the incident at Swanholme Lakes in Lincoln.
The teenager, also known as Tomiwa, was taken to hospital after emergency services were called to Swanholme Lakes Nature Reserve shortly before 6pm. He died at 8.50pm in hospital.
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 described as 'a committed student with a promising future' and had an 'extraordinary' passion for football. He played for Greenbank FC and Lincoln City FC where he never missed a training session or match.
Inquest opened
An inquest was opened by Coroner Paul Smith at the Myle Cross Centre in Lincoln on 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 has been conducted by Dr Melanie Levy. The precise medical cause of death is yet to be determined due to ongoing toxicology investigations. A provisional cause of death has been provided as 1A, drowning. The inquest has been adjourned until January 8, 2027.
Funeral and safety measures
Lincolnshire Co-op has confirmed that the funeral service for Tomiwa will take place at 1pm on July 22 at Alive Lincoln Central, followed by a committal at 2.30pm at Long Leys Cemetery.
The incident comes weeks after the death of 15-year-old Declan Sawyer, who died after getting into trouble in the water on May 24. Following the recent tragedies, wardens will now patrol areas like Swanholme Lakes and other open areas, focusing on open water safety and fires in woodlands. The City of Lincoln Council's trial programme began on July 17, with a pair of wardens with flotation devices patrolling the area. The scheme will run until October.
