Darley Abbey incident as body recovered from water
Emergency services were called to the River Derwent at Darley Abbey on Friday July 10 at 12.46pm following reports that two teenagers had got into difficulty while swimming. Five fire engines and three water rescue units were deployed to the scene, along with crews from Kingsway, Nottingham Road, Buxton and Belper. Firefighters from Nottinghamshire Fire Rescue Service's Highfields station also attended, together with Derbyshire police and East Midlands Ambulance Service.
The two teenagers were swimming in the weir close to the Darley Abbey Mills complex, located at the bottom of the weir near the mill. A younger teenager was successfully rescued from the water shortly before 4.30pm. However, the body of an 18-year-old was recovered from the water shortly after 8pm, as confirmed by Derby City Council.
Officers remained at the scene supporting the young man's family. A spokesperson for Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service extended condolences to the family and friends, describing it as "a sad and distressing time."
Louise Dempsey, group manager at Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, issued a stark warning about the dangers of open water. She stated: "Derbyshire has numerous open water sites including quarries reservoirs lakes and rivers which all have hidden dangers such as strong currents and hidden debris. The water remains cold even in hot temperatures meaning cold water shock can occur within seconds This can cause you to gasp for breath lose control of your breathing and become disorientated very quickly."
Cllr Sarah Chambers, cabinet member for public safety at Derby City Council, said: "Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all those affected by the incident at Darley Abbey on Friday afternoon. We are saddened to hear of this tragic loss of life and our hearts go out to the family friends and the whole community during this incredibly difficult time. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers of our inland waterways."