How did the 15-year-old girl drown in the River Severn?

She slipped into a fast-flowing section of the river near a weir while playing with friends and could not be reached.

What tributes have been made to Holli Smallman?

Her family described her as having an infectious joy for life, full of song and dancing, with a positive and lovable nature.

What was the outcome of the inquest into Holli Smallman's death?

The coroner found that Holli Smallman likely died as a result of accidental drowning.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Teen Drowns Playing in River During Heatwave

Teen Drowns Playing in River During Heatwave

18 Nov, 2025

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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.

Teen Drowns Playing in River During Heatwave

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.

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