A teenager who died in the River Thames near Oxfordshire over the May Day bank holiday weekend has been named.
Jake Smith, 17, from Swindon, was with a group of friends on Sunday evening (April 30) when he entered the water near Lechlade-on-Thames and did not resurface.
Some of those who were with him entered the water to try and find him, as emergency services rushed to the river.
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Police searched the area with support from the National Police Air Service, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, Severn Area Rescue Association, and Wiltshire Search and Rescue.
Specialist divers from Avon and Somerset Police recovered a body from the river on Monday (May 1).
At this time his death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.
The family of a teen who died after entering the River Thames have urged others to think about water safety. Jake Smith, 17 & from Swindon, died over the May Day bank hol weekend & his family said the support they've had since has been overwhelming.
— Gloucestershire Constabulary (@Glos_Police) May 2, 2023
More: https://t.co/xjyxxD4053 pic.twitter.com/qgUENXsCiP
Now, Jake's family has released a statement urging others to think about water safety.
In a short statement, 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 for their kindness and support.
"Although this was a tragic accident, we urge people to stop and think before they jump into the river."
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