A British teenager has tragically died in an accident while on a family holiday in the Dominican Republic. Abbie Lainton, 16, from Swindon, passed away on July 30. Her two siblings, Carley and Bradley, were seriously injured in the same incident.
Outpouring of tributes
An outpouring of tributes has followed for the teenager. A fundraising page was set up to support her family. Becky Jamieson, who created the GoFundMe campaign, described Abbie as someone cherished by all who knew her.
"On July 30, 2026, Abbie Lainton tragically lost her life in a terrible accident while on holiday in the Dominican Republic," the page reads. "Becky and Gary have lost their beautiful 16-year-old daughter, and Carley and Bradley were also badly injured in the accident."
Life ahead of her
"Abbie had her whole life ahead of her. She should have been enjoying the summer with her friends and looking forward to receiving her GCSE results," the fundraiser added. The precise circumstances of the incident have not yet been disclosed.
The fundraiser concluded: "Forever 16, forever loved and never forgotten."
Cheerleading career
Abbie was an accomplished cheerleader and a member of Swindon Lightning Cheerleading club, competing in tournaments worldwide. A spokesperson for the club said: "There are simply no words that feel enough. Abbie was a much-loved member of our Swindon Lightning family. Her kindness, infectious smile, unwavering encouragement and love for cheerleading touched the lives of so many athletes, coaches and families over the years."
Abbie's former school, Tanwood School for Performing Arts, also paid its respects in an official statement. "Abbie joined Tanwood as a dinky dot and was part of an exceptional group of dancers who formed strong friendships which spilled over to the audience when they performed together," a spokesperson said. "She always performed with a huge smile, and those beautiful feet. We are all in complete shock at this heartbreaking news and send so much love and support to her family and friends at this unimaginable time. You will always be in our hearts."
