Heartbreak at Exeter Canal: 13-Year-Old Boy Dies After Jumping In
Tragedy Strikes at Clapperbrook Lane East
A 13-year-old boy has died following a devastating incident at a canal in Exeter. Emergency services rushed to Clapperbrook Lane East at around 4:35pm on Monday, 5 May 2025, after reports that a child had jumped into the water and failed to resurface.
Heroic Rescue Attempt Fails
Police, fire, and ambulance crews arrived swiftly. The boy was pulled from the canal and given emergency first aid before being rushed to hospital in serious condition. Despite the heroic efforts of paramedics and hospital staff, he sadly passed away shortly after.
Family Supported as Police Investigate
The boy’s family has been informed and is receiving support from specially trained officers. Acting Superintendent Chris Conway expressed deep condolences, saying:
“This is an awful and tragic incident, and we offer our condolences to the family who are being supported by specialist officers. We would ask that the privacy of the family is respected as they come to terms with their devastating loss.”
Authorities have confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious. A file will be prepared for the coroner.
