An 18-year-old London sixth-form student died in a river during a Duke of Edinburgh expedition in Powys, Wales, last week. Umar Dumbuya was described by his family as a "loving" son, brother, and grandson.
Emergency services, including police, fire, and mountain rescue, were called to the River Wye at Glasbury, Powys, on June 30 after reports that someone had entered the water and gone missing. Dyfed-Powys Police later recovered a body and identified it as Umar Dumbuya.
Family and School Pay Tribute
In a statement, Umar's family said there are "no words" to describe the pain they are feeling. They remembered him as a "loving" son, brother, and grandson.
Umar's school, Leyton Sixth Form College, described him as a "much-loved student" who will be remembered for his kindness and warmth. The college launched a GoFundMe page to support the family with funeral expenses.
Leyton Sixth Form College wrote: "It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking loss of a much-loved student who tragically passed away in a sudden accident. Umar will be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and the positive impact he had on his family, friends, classmates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing them.
"Umar's loss has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who loved them. With the permission of the family, during this incredibly difficult time, we are raising funds to help support them with funeral expenses and other unexpected costs, allowing them the time and space to grieve without additional financial burden.
"Every donation, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to contribute financially, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping the family in your thoughts and prayers."
Duke of Edinburgh's Award Confirms Incident
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) confirmed on July 1 that Umar was on a DofE expedition in Powys when the tragedy occurred. A DofE spokesman said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm that a young person has drowned while on a DofE expedition in Powys, Wales. Our thoughts are with the young person's family together with all those who were taking part. We will do everything we can to support them at this difficult time.
"DofE is liaising closely with the young person's college and relevant authorities to understand how this tragic incident happened. We are offering our full support."
The incident has prompted an investigation by Dyfed-Powys Police and other authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding Umar's death.
