The family of a teenager who tragically died in a drowning accident on Aberavon beach have said they want his life to be a 'beacon for change'. David Ejimofor, 15, tragically died after getting into trouble in the sea on Monday, June 19. There was a large emergency service presence on the beach but despite the best efforts of paramedics and the public David sadly lost his life.
His family have issued an emotional tribute to him through South Wales Police and launched a petition on change.org calling for action to be taken to prevent future tragedies. In the petition, they said that David had been "encouraged by friends to join them in jumping off the pier". They said it was a a "yearly coming of age ceremony" practiced after GCSEs and A-levels that the entire community is aware of".
They wrote: "If everyone including schools are aware of this practice, surely we would expect the Council to have better safeguarding measures in place especially at this time of year. David Ejimofor was not the first to suffer such a fate at the hands of this pier. We do not want David to be another statistic. We want his name to serve as an end of this unfortunate trail. It is for this reason that we seek change and reform by improving safeguarding measures at Aberavon Beach."
Read more: School shares sadness at death of teenager in incident at Aberavon beach
In the tribute issued through police, the family said: "It is with heavy hearts and immense grief that we announce the sudden death of our beloved David Ejimofor, a son, brother, cousin, nephew, and friend.
"Our beloved David, a vibrant and promising young boy aged 15, tragically lost his life in a drowning accident at Aberavon beach on 19th June 2023. He is a well behaved and God-fearing young boy with an unwavering passion for sports and health. He was always striving to be the best version of himself. He has an infectious smile, caring nature, and boundless enthusiasm. He touched the lives of many.
"This heart-breaking incident has left us devastated. As described by locals, "he is a ray of sunshine to all of us". David's dreams of a bright future were cut short, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
"We welcome the police investigation into this unfortunate incident and await a thorough report. This is not something we would want anyone else to have to suffer. It is for this reason we are using our dear David’s life as a beacon for change. Thank you for your support, love, and prayers. With heartfelt gratitude, The Ejimofor Family."
Earlier this week St. Joseph's Catholic School & Sixth Form Centre in Port Talbot posted a message on their Facebook page announcing the death of one of their pupils. In a letter to parents online headteacher of the school Eugene Scourfield said: "We are deeply saddened by the news of the tragic and unexpected passing away of one of our Year 11 pupils.
"Please be assured that we have set up provision for support with the help of the NPT Counselling Service and our local clergy. Our chapel is open to pupils, parents and friends of our school community. Please keep the family in your prayers."
David's family has started a change.com petition asking for better safeguarding measures at the beach. They are asking for "Neath Port Talbot Council to make the necessary change" and have made 10 recommendations to what they want to see happen. These include installing barriers and ladders, and lifebuoys and signage. The petition can be found here.
A Neath Port Talbot Council spokesman said: “We are aware that there are two petitions being organised by local residents and we will make sure that these receive attention within the multi-agency group that is coordinating the response to this very sad incident. Following the tragic incident at Aberavon Beach we want to reassure residents that safety is of paramount importance to us and our partners. A range of emergency services currently operate at the beach and are dedicated to ensuring the safety of all those who use it.
“In the event that someone witnesses an incident or believes there is a potential risk to individuals in the water we strongly encourage them to take immediate action by calling 999. Dedicated lifeguards, coastguard, and other emergency response teams are trained professionals who are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to any emergency situations.
“Aberavon Beach is equipped with signage and advice to promote water safety. These signs provide guidance on swimming in designated areas and the importance of following lifeguards’ instructions. We urge all beach users to take note of these signs, familiarise themselves with the safety advice provided, and ensure that they are aware of the potential risks and how to respond to emergencies.”
