UPDATE: A tragic incident unfolded on August 9, 2024, when 15-year-old Holli Smallman drowned in the River Severn while playing with friends during a summer heatwave. The inquest revealed that Holli slipped into a fast-flowing stretch of the river near a weir in Welshpool, mid-Wales, and her friends were unable to rescue her.
Emergency services were alerted shortly after the incident, commencing a large-scale search. Despite their efforts, Holli was found over three hours later and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Coroner Kerrie Burge detailed the circumstances, noting that Holli was not a strong swimmer. She described how the group was enjoying the sun when Holli lost her footing and disappeared beneath the water. “Despite the best efforts of her friends to grab hold of her and to find her, Holli could not be located and did not resurface,” Burge stated.
The emotional aftermath has devastated Holli’s family, who are urging others to recognize the dangers posed by open water. In a heartfelt tribute, they expressed their grief, saying, “We are so heartbroken and would never want any other family to go through the pain that we are going through.” They emphasized the importance of safety around water, especially for children.
Holli was remembered for her vibrant personality, love for music and dancing, and as a beloved member of the community. She was a popular pupil at Welshpool High School and an active participant in local army cadets. Her family reflected on her joy for life, stating, “She had her whole life ahead of her and there will be a hole in our lives that will never heal.”
The family expressed gratitude for the community’s support during this unimaginable time. They extended their thoughts to Holli’s friends who witnessed the tragedy and thanked the emergency services for their dedicated efforts.
As investigations continue, officials are reminding the public to exercise caution when near open water, especially during hot weather. The heart-wrenching loss of Holli Smallman serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers that can arise from seemingly innocent summer activities.
For anyone affected by this tragedy, support resources are available, and community members are encouraged to look out for one another during these difficult times.
