Another teenager was rescued from the River Derwent
Joel Moore Senior Reporter
07:40, 11 Jul 2026Updated 07:54, 11 Jul 2026
A man died after getting into difficulty in the water at Darley Abbey(Image: Derby Telegraph/Simon Deacon)
A warning has been issued to the public following the death of an 18-year-old man who got into difficulty while swimming in the river at Darley Abbey.
Five fire engines and three water rescue units were deployed to the River Derwent shortly after 12.46pm on Friday, July 10 before Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS) confirmed two people had got into difficulty while swimming in the water.
A younger teenager was rescued from the water shortly before 4.30pm, but police later confirmed the 18-year-old’s body was recovered. Officers are now said to be supporting the man’s family.
A spokesperson for DFRS said it would like to “extend its condolences” to the family and friends of the man at this “sad and distressing time”.
Issuing a stark warning to members of the public, Louise Dempsey, group manager at DFRS, said Derbyshire has numerous open water sites including quarries, reservoirs, lakes and rivers which “all have hidden dangers” such as strong currents and hidden debris.
“The water remains cold even in hot temperatures, meaning cold water shock can occur within seconds. This can cause you to gasp for breath, lose control of your breathing and become disorientated very quickly,” she said.
“If you do enter open water and get into difficulty, use the ‘Float to Live’ technique, lay on your back, put your arms and legs out and float, this will allow you to calm your breathing, gain control and either call for help, or swim to safety.”
Cllr Sarah Chambers, cabinet member for public safety at Derby City Council, said: “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all those affected by the incident at Darley Abbey on Friday afternoon.
“We are saddened to hear of this tragic loss of life, and our hearts go out to the family, friends, and the whole community during this incredibly difficult time.
“This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers of our inland waterways. Even during warm weather, rivers present unique hazards that are not always visible from the riverbank.”