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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Alan Weston

Outpouring of grief after 19-year-old student found dead in River Mersey

There was an outpouring of emotion to the tragic story of a Liverpool teenager who was found dead after apparently throwing himself in the River Mersey.

Student Richard Bliss, 19, texted his mum saying "I love you" just before his death.

After receiving the text in the middle of the night, his mum replied "I love you too," unaware he would never read it.

Richard Bliss, described by his devastated dad as "generous, kind and thoughtful", was pulled from the water on Sunday.

The University of Liverpool  student was rushed to hospital by the emergency services, just after 4.55am, after a passerby alerted the authorities to a body in the river.

However sadly, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, the former Hillside High School pupil was pronounced dead in hospital a short time later.

The heartbreaking incident provoked a flood of reactions on social media.

Richard Bliss was described by his devastated family as "generous, kind and thoughtful" (Keith Bliss)

Emma posted on Twitter: "This story is really sad, poor young man battling demons. I have a 19 year old, makes me want to hug him that bit longer."

Robert Fleming said: "God love him. He must have been in a bad place. I know the feeling of helplessness. May he rest in peace. My heart goes out to his family."

Many others reacted who knew Richard personally.

Cathy Smyth said: "Absolutely heartbreaking. Richard was such a kindhearted, helpful, friendly young lad. RIP lovely boy. Taken way too soon. My heart goes out to all his family and friends."

Richard Bliss, 19, was a student at University of Liverpool and was studying business (Keith Bliss)

Lucy Gittins said: "I taught Richard during his time at Hillside, he was such a kind and gentle young man with impeccable manners and a lovely way about him.

"He was a credit to his family. I am so saddened to read this news. My heartfelt sympathy goes to all of his family on such a tragic loss of a lovely young man. Deepest condolences to you all x."

Lucy Ann said: "I had the absolute pleasure of teaching this wonderful, witty and capable young man at primary school and he absolutely was nothing but a joy to teach. Such a tragic loss of a very precious life. Sending thoughts to his family, especially his siblings.

"May your closeness and love for each other be a strength at this sad time x x x."

Andy Loftus said: "I've a wonderful son of the same age and it's left me in a totally devastated mood, just can't imagine what they're going through. I’m heartbroken for you all."

Others responded by urging those struggling with mental health to seek help.

James Ian said: "As a parent, this is a constant worry. Are my kids feeling ok? The worst thing is that in most cases like these there are often no indicators as to what’s really going on. Terribly sad for all concerned."

And Janine McClymont said: "As parents we need to asking our young children about their mental health - make it a normal conversation. Hopefully that way they will turn to us at times of crisis."   

Merseyside Police  confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Richard's death and a file has been prepared for the coroner.

If you are affected by the issues in this story, you can speak to the Samaritans for free on 116 123

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