Tragedy in Exeter: 13-Year-Old Boy Drowns in City Canal
A 13-year-old boy has died after drowning in the Exeter Canal on Bank Holiday Monday, in a heartbreaking incident that has left the local community in shock.
The victim, Delvin Musakwa, reportedly entered the water near Clapperbrook Lane East on the afternoon of May 5, 2025. Emergency services, including police, paramedics, and fire and rescue crews, were quickly dispatched to the scene after reports of a boy in distress in the water.
Despite the efforts of first responders, Delvin was pulled from the canal unresponsive and was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the incident is not being treated as suspicious. A file is being prepared for the coroner, and an inquest is expected to be opened in the coming weeks.
A spokesperson for the police said:
> “We were called to the Exeter Canal near Clapperbrook Lane East at around 3:40 p.m. following reports of a concern for the welfare of a person in the water. Tragically, despite the best efforts of emergency personnel, a 13-year-old boy was declared deceased. His next of kin have been informed and are being supported.”
Local residents have responded with an outpouring of grief, laying flowers near the canal path and sharing condolences on social media.
Community leaders have urged caution around open water, particularly as warmer weather draws more people to local rivers and canals. Water safety campaigns are expected to intensify in the coming months.
The incident has reignited discussions around public safety measures and signage at popular but potentially dangerous swimming spots across Exeter.
Further updates will follow as the coroner’s inquest progresses.
