An 18-year-old student, Umar Dumbuya, tragically died after entering the River Wye while participating in a Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition in Powys, Wales. Emergency services were called to a popular bathing spot after reports that a male had entered the water and could not be found.
College Launches GoFundMe for Family
Leyton Sixth Form College, where Umar was a student, launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his family. In the fundraiser, staff said: 'It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking loss of a much-loved student who tragically passed away in a sudden accident. Umar will be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and the positive impact he had on his family, friends, classmates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing them. Umar's loss has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who loved them.'
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
Umar's family paid tribute through Dyfed-Powys Police, stating: 'We are heartbroken by the loss of our son, brother, and grandson. There are no words that can describe the pain we are feeling as a family. Umar was a loving boy and will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him. Umar loved spending time playing basketball, attending the gym and time with friends and family. We will always remember Umar for his kindness, warmth and sense of humour. His death has left a devastating hole in our family, and we now ask for privacy as we take time to grieve.'
Duke of Edinburgh's Award Response
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award also honoured Umar, describing him as an 'exceptional young person' who had made a lasting impact on those around him. The organisation said: 'From the tributes shared by those who knew and loved him, it's clear that Umar was an exceptional young person and a much-valued member of his college community. College staff have spoken of his dedication, kindness, dependability and care for others, and of the contribution he made in supporting and promoting DofE within the college. We remain profoundly saddened by Umar's death and send our sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, fellow students and college staff. We will continue to do everything we can to support them at this unimaginably difficult time. The safety and wellbeing of young people taking part in DofE remains our absolute priority. We continue to support the college and the relevant authorities as they work to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.'
Water Safety Campaign
The Mirror has launched the Save Lives For Sam water safety campaign to tackle the UK's growing drowning crisis. Backed by MPs, Olympic champions, national water safety organisations and bereaved families, the campaign is calling for urgent action to make waters safer, including compulsory water safety lessons in schools, a nationwide public awareness campaign, better lifesaving equipment at high-risk waterways, the introduction of Sam's Law, and a dedicated Minister for Water Safety.
