A 17-year-old student from a London school passed away while snorkeling during a trip to Malawi. Malawi Police Service identified the student as Eugene Enoch Kwon, who was a student at Hampton School in southwest London.
The incident occurred when students from the school were snorkeling in Lake Malawi at Cape Maclear, Monkey Bay. The student went missing during the activity and was later discovered underwater by divers after an extensive search of the lake. Despite being rushed to Monkey Bay Community Hospital for treatment, the student sadly succumbed to suffocation caused by drowning, according to the police.
Superintendent Patrick Mussa from the Eastern Region Police Headquarters of the Malawi Police Service mentioned that Eugene’s disappearance prompted an immediate search operation. He stated that after a thorough search, divers located the student underwater. The police extended their condolences to the grieving family, with investigations into the matter ongoing.
Hampton School, a private boys’ school in Richmond upon Thames, confirmed the tragic loss of one of its students during the camping trip. A school spokesperson conveyed their thoughts, love, and deepest sympathies to the student’s family and loved ones during this incredibly challenging time. The school is currently focused on providing support to the family and the affected members of the school community.
This unfortunate event follows the recent death of another student from London during a Duke of Edinburgh trip to Wales. Umar Dumbuya, aged 18, lost his life on June 30 after entering the River Wye during the expedition in Powys. Emergency services were alerted when a male student entered the water and could not be located.
Umar, a student at Leyton Sixth Form in east London, was fondly remembered by the college community. A GoFundMe campaign was launched by the college to assist the bereaved family. Staff expressed deep sadness over the sudden loss of Umar, highlighting his kindness, warmth, and positive influence on those around him. His memory was cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
