Leon Pafu Ngoy, an 18-year-old who had just completed his GCSEs, died after getting into difficulty in the River Irwell at Clifton Country Park in Salford. His heartbroken family said that if he had gone to the local swimming baths instead, he would still be alive.
Emergency Response and Recovery
Emergency services rushed to the scene on Saturday, June 27, after the alarm was raised, but could not save him. A major search operation was launched, with crews working through to the following Monday before his body was recovered.
Greater Manchester Police released a statement on behalf of the family, who paid tribute to Leon's 'infectious smile' and 'big ambitions' for the future.
Family's Statement
In their full tribute, the family said: 'Leon was our baby, our brother, our best friend and the heart of our family. He was kind, respectful, thoughtful and loved by everyone who knew him.'
'No matter where he went, Leon brought energy, laughter and happiness. People will always remember his infectious smile, his sense of humour and the way he treated others with kindness and compassion.'
Warning About Open Water
The family issued a warning about entering open water: 'If Leon could speak to others today, we believe he would have one important message: no matter how safe the water may look, it is never worth taking the risk.'
'We will always wonder what might have been if different choices had been made. If Leon had gone to the local swimming baths instead of the Clifton Country Park that day, he would still be with us.'
'In sharing Leon's story, we hope that other families never have to experience the unimaginable pain and heartbreak that we are living through.'
Campaign for Water Safety
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 calls for urgent action 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.
