Second boy, 14, dies after teens got into trouble in river that killed friend

15 June 2023 , 22:03

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The first victim of the river tragedy, Lewis Michael Kirkpatrick (Image: PA)

A teenager who got into difficulty in a river along with his friends has died.

Cumbria Police confirmed the 14-year-old, who has not yet been named, passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning.

His death in hospital comes several weeks after that of 15-year-old Lewis Michael Kirkpatrick, whose body was found in the River Eden in Carlisle following the same incident.

The force said a file will now be prepared for the coroner.

A huge search was launched by emergency services at 6.41pm on May 26 when a group of four teenage boys got into difficulty in the river, with a 15-year-old from Carlisle later reported missing.

Baby boy has spent his life in hospital as doctors are 'scared' to discharge him

A 14-year-old has died after getting into difficulty in the River Eden (Alamy Stock Photo)

Lewis's body was found in the river the following day. The 14-year-old was meanwhile rushed to hospital in a critical condition.

An inquest was opened into Lewis's death at this week at Cockermouth Coroner's Court, where coroner Margaret Taylor urged young people to be careful around water in hot weather. A full inquest is due to be held later this year.

Mr Kirkpatrick's parents, Nichola and Paul Kirkpatrick, previously paid tribute to their "kind, caring and funny son".

In a statement released by police, the couple said: "Lewis was the baby of the family and his death has left a gaping hole that can never be filled.

"Lewis was a loving son, brother of Kyle and Nathan, grandson, nephew, cousin, uncle, friend, and boyfriend of Kiara."

The family expressed gratitude to the emergency services and agencies who helped in the search for Lewis, and a member of the public "who risked his own life to try to help the boys".

They also said they were overwhelmed by messages of support and thanked Carlisle United and Stockport County fans, who paid their respects with a minutes' applause in the 15th minute of the Sky Bet League Two play-off final.

Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas