The father of Declan Sawyer, a 15-year-old boy who tragically passed away at Swanholme Lakes, has issued a statement for the first time, describing his son as a vibrant and humorous individual. Declan was discovered during a search at Swanholme Lakes in Lincoln after authorities were alerted on Sunday afternoon about a young boy in distress in the water. Following concerns for his safety, police, along with specialized divers, conducted an extensive search and eventually recovered Declan’s body, confirming the heartbreaking news later that evening.
In his father’s words, Declan was a beloved young man who enjoyed fishing and playing football, known for his mischievous smile and lively personality. His family urges awareness about the risks associated with children playing near rivers or lakes during hot weather, emphasizing the importance of educating children about water safety.
The family requests privacy during this difficult time to grieve their sudden loss. Prior to the father’s statement, friends and relatives of Declan expressed their sorrow on social media, remembering him fondly and paying tribute to his memory. Police have advised accessing mental health and wellbeing support services and cautioned against spreading unverified information.
The authorities extended their condolences to Declan’s family, acknowledging the profound impact of the incident on his friends and the local community. As the community enters the half-term break, they urge support for those affected and encourage seeking assistance when needed.
