The body of Valentine Ikechukwu, a 16-year-old Nigerian teenager living in the United Kingdom, has been recovered from a lake in Colwick Country Park, where he tragically drowned on April 30.
According to a statement from Nottinghamshire Police shared on Facebook, Valentine encountered difficulties while swimming in the lake. Emergency responders were alerted to the situation around 5:20 PM that day, prompting a search and rescue operation.
The teenager’s body was located shortly before 8 PM after an extensive search coordinated between police and emergency services.
The statement noted, “Emergency services were called to Colwick Country Park after Valentine got into trouble while swimming.
A multi-agency rescue operation was launched, involving a police underwater search team and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, leading to the discovery of the body of Valentine.”
In response to the tragic incident, Detective Inspector Gail Routledge expressed condolences to the family, stating, “Valentine’s family is receiving support from specially trained officers during this challenging time.
This is a tragedy involving a young boy who lost his life, and our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
He emphasized the importance of being aware of the dangers associated with open water, regardless of intent.
Valentine’s family described him as a well-behaved and dearly loved son. They expressed their grief, saying, “Long live Valentine, forever 16.
He was a former student at Nottingham College and well-liked among his peers. We are struggling to find words to describe our pain right now and respectfully request privacy as we attempt to come to terms with this loss. He will be forever missed.”
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Nottinghamshire Police have confirmed that Valentine’s death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file is being prepared for the Coroner.
