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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Alex Grove & Chiara Fiorillo

Moving tributes to 'nicest lad' as footballer, 13, drowns in reservoir during heatwave

A young footballer who drowned in a reservoir during a heatwave this week has been pictured for the first time.

Tomi Solomon, 13, died in Brighouse, West Yorkshire, on Tuesday, during a day out with his friends.

The student was reportedly playing with other teenagers by the River Calder when he got into difficulties.

Emergency crews were called to the scene at 2.38pm and West Yorkshire Police launched an urgent search.

Sadly, Tomi's body was recovered from the water by specialist fire service staff, Yorkshire Live reports.

After his death, tributes have flooded in for the talented footballer who played for Bradford City.

Flowers, cards and a football have been left on the railings overlooking the River Calder.

One message read: "To Tomi. We only spoke once a day but you was the nicest lad I had ever met, you brought spirit into a silent room.

“You don’t understand how much you meant to everyone. Heaven is lucky to have you. Gone too early but never forgotten.

“Love you Tomi rest easy.”

The football club also paid tribute to Tomi, who represented their under-13s side.

The club's academy manager Neil Matthews said the boy was "very popular and well thought of" by staff at the club.

Mr Matthews said: “We are devastated to hear of this news about Tomi, and our thoughts are with his family at this time.

“Tomi was very popular and well thought of, by all the staff who had the pleasure of working with him.

“He will be deeply missed by all involved with Bradford City.”

Police were called to the scene at 2.38pm on Tuesday (Unknown)

The club’s chief executive officer, Ryan Sparks, said: “We are heartbroken by the news of Tomi’s tragic passing. Our immediate thoughts are with his family, friends, teammates and coaches.

“We will remain close with all those who knew Tomi - and offer them any support they may need - during what is undoubtedly an incredibly challenging time.”

Chief Superintendent Sarah Baker, District Commander of Calderdale Police, said: “We are continuing our enquiries with partners. Whilst investigations into what took place are at an early stage, indications are that this is a tragic incident in which a teenage boy has lost his life.

“Specially trained officers are working to support the victim’s family at this devastating time, and our thoughts are with them.

“I would ask anyone who saw what happened and who may have not yet spoken with authorities, to contact Calderdale CID on 101 referencing police log 989 of June 1st.”

After Tomi's death, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service pleaded with the public to "think twice" before entering canals and rivers.

Andy Rose, group manager at WYFRS, said: "Unfortunately, during periods of warm weather, we tend to see these figures rise with people entering canals and rivers to cool down and swim.

"As appealing as this may seem, there are many hidden dangers that have tragically taken lives and I would urge members of the public to think twice before entering due to the potential unseen hazards and risks."

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