UK Police Recover Body of 16-Year-Old Nigerian Who Drowned in Colwick Country Park
The body of 16-year-old Nigerian teenager, Valentine Ikechukwu, who tragically drowned in a lake at Colwick Country Park, Nottingham, has been recovered by UK police.
Valentine, a former student of Nottingham College, encountered difficulty while swimming in the lake on April 30, prompting an emergency response. Authorities were called to the scene at approximately 5:20 pm, initiating a large-scale, multi-agency search effort involving the Nottinghamshire Police underwater team and the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.
His body was located and recovered shortly before 8:00 pm.
Detective Inspector Gail Routledge expressed deep sympathy for the family, stating:
“This was a tragedy where a young boy lost his life. Our thoughts remain with Valentine’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
She also used the opportunity to warn about the dangers of entering open water, even during seemingly harmless recreational activities.
Valentine’s family issued a heartfelt tribute, describing him as a respectful and much-loved young man:
“Long live Valentine, forever 16. He was a former Nottingham College student and was well-liked amongst his friends. Words cannot describe what we are going through right now. We would kindly request privacy so that we can grieve as a family and try to come to terms with what has happened to our Valentine. He will be forever missed.”
Authorities have confirmed the incident is not being treated as suspicious, and a file is being prepared for the Coroner.
