Tragic Cold Water Shock Claims Teen's Life

A 13-year-old schoolboy, Delvin Musakwa from Exeter, Devon, died from suspected cold water shock after jumping into a canal on May 5, 2025. The inquest heard that Delvin, who had weekly swimming lessons and was aware of his limits, entered the canal after his friends on a hot day. Despite warning signs, he leaped from a small bridge, stating, "I can do this," but did not resurface.

Senior coroner Philip Spinney concluded the death was accidental, likely caused by cold water shock, a condition where sudden entry into cold water triggers a gasping reflex, leading to rapid unconsciousness. Delvin was submerged for approximately 25 minutes. Members of the public displayed immense bravery, selflessly jumping into the canal to attempt a rescue, facing zero visibility and dangerously cold water.

Rescuers, including Neil Baker and John Kelly, described the water as very deep and cold with zero visibility. They used fire brigade lifelines and long poles in their desperate attempts. Tragically, Delvin was located and pulled from the water, receiving CPR before being rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His mother described her devastation at losing her son.