Tragic Death of Young Man in River Avon Swim Shakes Bradford on Avon
A young man in his 20s has died after disappearing during a swim in the River Avon with friends in Bradford on Avon. The grim discovery sparked a huge emergency response on Friday evening, 27 June.
Massive Emergency Response at Barton Farm
At 5.30pm, emergency crews rushed to Barton Farm Country Park after reports a swimmer failed to resurface near the popular Packhorse Bridge. The man had jumped into the river with friends but didn’t come back up.
Seven fire crews, three specialist water rescue units, Wiltshire Search and Rescue, Severn Area Rescue Association, Avon and Somerset SAR, police drone teams, and an air ambulance were all scrambled to the scene.
- Seven fire crews deployed
- Three water rescue units from Avon Fire & Rescue Service
- Wiltshire Search and Rescue and air ambulance on standby
- Support from Severn Area Rescue Association and Avon and Somerset SAR
- Police drone operators using thermal imaging
Body Found After Hours of Search
After an intense overnight operation, rescue teams recovered the body of the young man in the early hours of Saturday, 28 June.
“We responded to concerns for the welfare of a man swimming in the River Avon. Following a search, we sadly recovered a body. While formal identification is yet to take place, the family has been informed. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.” – Wiltshire Police
Witnesses and Community Shock
Police interviewed several young people on site believed to be friends of the victim. The tragic event has rattled the local community, where swimming in the Avon is a popular summer activity.
Officials regularly warn about dangers lurking beneath the water: cold shock, strong currents, and hidden underwater hazards.
Urgent Safety Reminder from Authorities
Wiltshire Police are urging the public to exercise extreme caution around waterways. Their message is clear: never swim alone or in areas without supervision.
The tragedy serves as a stark warning to swimmers across the UK this summer.
