A sixth-form student who died during a Duke of Edinburgh expedition in Wales has been named as 18-year-old Umar Dumbuya, described by his school as a "much-loved" young man remembered for his "kindness and warmth."
Emergency services, including police, fire, and mountain rescue, were called to the River Wye at Glasbury, Powys, on June 30 after reports that a person had entered the water and gone missing. Dyfed-Powys Police later recovered a body and identified it as Umar Dumbuya.
Family Tribute and School Response
Umar's family paid tribute to him as a "loving" son, brother, and grandson, stating there are "no words" to describe their pain. Leyton Sixth Form College, where Umar was a student, expressed profound sadness and launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his family with funeral expenses and other unexpected costs.
In a statement, the college wrote: "It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking loss of a much-loved student who tragically passed away in a sudden accident. Umar will be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and the positive impact he had on his family, friends, classmates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing them."
Duke of Edinburgh's Award Statement
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award confirmed on July 1 that Umar was on a DofE expedition in Powys at the time of the tragedy. A spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm that a young person has drowned while on a DofE expedition in Powys, Wales. Our thoughts are with the young person's family together with all those who were taking part. We will do everything we can to support them at this difficult time. DofE is liaising closely with the young person's college and relevant authorities to understand how this tragic incident happened."
The fundraiser, set up with the family's permission, aims to alleviate financial burdens during their grief. The college urged donations and support, stating: "Every donation, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference."
