Body has been found in a water search for a missing 23-year-old man in Buscot — the third death that comes as a result of open water swimming locally in just two weeks.
Emergency services were called to the River Thames at around 9.10pm on Saturday (12 July), following reports of a person having disappeared while swimming.
The incident sparked a significant response, with police, fire and ambulance crews all racing to Buscot Weir, just miles from the Wiltshire border. The police helicopter was also deployed.
The 23-year-old man, named only William by Thames Valley Police, was reportedly with friends when he got into difficultly at the popular swimming spot.
Specialist resources, including Wiltshire Search and Rescue and the Severn Area Rescue Association, were deployed as searches continued overnight.
This morning (Sunday), the urgent operation continued – with many search and rescue volunteers from across the south of England on scene to provide support.
Divers from Avon and Somerset Police also attended and following extensive efforts, a body was recovered from the water.
Although formal identification has not yet taken place, Thames Valley Police believe it to be William and his family have been informed.
Temporary Chief Superintendent Lis Knight said: “Extensive searches were untaken to locate William, and I am saddened to confirm that we have located a young man’s body.
“William’s family have been kept updated throughout the day.
“An investigation will be conducted on behalf of the Oxfordshire Coroner, but we do not believe the death to be suspicious.
“I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all agencies who have assisted us with our search throughout the day.
“It is a very tragic outcome, and my thoughts and the thoughts of all of us at Thames Valley Police remain with William’s family at this extremely distressing time.”
The UK Government warns that swimming in rivers and lakes carries a serious risk of drowning. Cold-water shock, strong currents, and hidden hazards like debris or sudden depth changes can quickly overwhelm even strong swimmers.
It advises the public to avoid open water unless at a designated, supervised location, stressing that unregulated spots are especially dangerous and not safe for swimming.
