Body found in River Thames in Gloucestershire confirmed as missing teenager
17-year-old Jake Smith died over the May Day bank holiday weekend after failing to resurface in a stretch of the River Thames in Gloucestershire. His family are now stressing the importance of river safety.
Tuesday 2 May 2023 17:55, UK
A body recovered from the River Thames in Gloucestershire has been confirmed as the teenager who went missing over the bank holiday weekend.
Jake Smith, 17, from Swindon went missing after playing with some friends in the river near Lechlade-on-Thames on Sunday evening.
He didn't resurface after going into the water.
Some of those who were with him entered the water to try to find Jake, and emergency services were called and joined the search for him.
Specialist divers recovered Jake's body from the river yesterday (1 May), police said.
Jake's family issued a statement on their loss.
They said: "We unfortunately lost Jake in a tragic accident.
"The support and messages we have received have been overwhelming and shows the love that people had.
"Jake will be missed by all his family and friends.
"We would like to thank the emergency services, the community and especially The Riverside (accommodation, bar and restaurant) for their kindness and support."
Read more on Sky News:
Brixton: Man arrested on suspicion of murder after woman, 31, stabbed to death by stranger
Mother of boy, 3, who was fasted to death detained indefinitely
They also warned others to be more attentive to water safety, saying: "Although this was a tragic accident, we urge people to stop and think before they jump into the river."
A Gloucestershire Police spokesman added: "At this time his death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner."
Be the first to get Breaking News
Install the Sky News app for free
