A 15-year-old Nigerian boy, David Chiaka Ejimofor, drowned after jumping off a pier in Aberavon, South Wales, a coroner concluded.
The incident occurred on June 19, 2023, when David entered the sea from an unrestricted breakwater. Coroner Edward Ramsay noted a "lack of deterrents" and said a lifeguard could have prevented the tragedy.
"He was a cautious swimmer but struggled in the water," Ramsay said. Despite rescue efforts by an off-duty police officer and bystanders, David was declared dead at 8:05 PM.
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Authorities admitted no physical barriers or clear signage were in place. The RNLI confirmed lifeguards only patrol from 10 AM–6 PM, leaving evenings unsupervised.
David’s mother, Maria Ejimofor, described him as a careful swimmer. Phone records showed he had researched swimming safety before the incident.
Associated British Ports and Neath Port Talbot Council expressed condolences, pledging to review beach safety for 2025.
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