A west London college student who died while on a trip to a West Sussex beach was an energetic boy who brought joy to all those who knew him, his family has said.
Uxbridge College student Samuel Oluwatosin Oluwagbenga, 17, died after getting into the water at West Wittering while on a trip organised by the college.
Lifeguards attempted to rescue Samuel, but his life could not be saved.
A fundraiser in memory of the popular teen has raised more than £7,500, well above an initial target of £6,000.
A message posted on the fundraiser on behalf of Samuel’s family said: “Samuel was an energetic 17 year old and brought so much joy to everyone he met.
“He loved his little brother and on his weekends, he spent his time coaching younger children futsal in the Uxbridge Community. We are completely heartbroken of his passing.”
An initial post-mortem examination was unable to determine the teen’s cause of death, an inquest was told. It has been adjourned until September.
Uxbridge College principal Dylan McTaggart said: “This was a tragic accident that has had a huge impact on everyone here. Our priority now is to look after all those affected.
“We have enlisted the help of qualified counsellors and will make sure that over the next days and weeks we have staff and professional support available to our community.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and we ask that you respect their privacy as they grieve the loss of a child.”
Detective Inspector Darren Taylor, of Sussex Police, said: “This was an absolutely tragic incident and I would like to express my sincere condolences to the boy’s loved ones at this heartbreaking time.
“A police investigation, supported by the Health and Safety Executive, is under way to establish the full facts.”
