River Wyre tragedy as teenage boy dies despite frantic efforts to save him

A teenager boy has died after getting into difficulty in a river with members of the public trying to revive him on the bank, have sadly confirmed.

People were trying to resuscitate the youngster by the side of the River Wyre, close to Garstang Cricket Club, during the that happened shortly after 2.30pm on Saturday (May 17). Lancashire Constabulary said the boy, who has not been identified as of Monday afternoon, was then airlifted to in a 'critical condition'. Despite the despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he tragically died on Sunday.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Lancashire Police, has also appealed to the public for information over the incident. They stated: "We were called to the River close to Garstang Cricket Club at 2.33pm on Saturday (May 17) following reports a male had got into difficulty in the water.

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"Our officers quickly attended and found that a teenage boy was being given CPR by members of the public on the riverbank. He was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition but despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he very sadly died yesterday (May 18).

"Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this incredibly distressing time. Anyone with information can call 101, quoting log 834 of May 17, 2025."

Nick Hill, a local eyewitness, told the how the part of the river where the accident happened is known to be "dangerous" and that there are warning signs in place.

He said: "The area was quickly cordoned off and I saw a police officer interviewing a tearful young girl among a group of backpackers.

"That part of the Wyre is regarded by the Environment Agency as dangerous with several warning signs. It is a few yards beyond the flood control gate, a small area of invitingly calm water before a series of weirs."

The retired journalist added that previously he had seen "young boys leaping in from a high vantage point despite the obvious hazard". A person also wrote on : "This is so sad. We go here regularly for our walks with the kids and we almost always see teenagers jumping off the bridge or playing in the water despite all the signs telling you not to do so."

A Wyre Council spokesperson told: "We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss and our heartfelt condolences go out to the young man’s family, friends and all those affected. While Wyre Council is committed to promoting water safety and raising awareness, the responsibility for issuing specific warnings and monitoring river conditions lies with the Environment Agency (EA), who work to help keep communities safe around waterways."