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Teen Drowns Playing in River During Heatwave
18 Nov
Summary
- A 15-year-old girl drowned after slipping into a fast-flowing river.
- She was playing with friends on the banks of the River Severn.
- Her family described her as having an infectious joy for life.

A 15-year-old girl, Holli Smallman, tragically lost her life after accidentally drowning in the River Severn. The incident occurred on August 9, 2024, when Holli was socializing with friends on the riverbanks.
During a period of warm weather, the group decided to enter the water. While playing near a weir where the current was faster, Holli slipped and went under. Her friends made desperate but unsuccessful attempts to rescue her.
An extensive search was launched, and Holli was tragically found deceased in Welshpool. The subsequent inquest concluded that her death was a result of accidental drowning, with the coroner noting Holli was not a strong swimmer. Her grieving family remembers her for her vibrant spirit and infectious joy.




