‘We will always wonder what might have been if different choices had been made’
14:40, 12 Jul 2026Updated 17:14, 12 Jul 2026
Tributes: Leon Pafu Ngoy(Image: GMP)
A teenager who died after getting into difficulty in the River Irwell at a country park has been named as Leon Pafu Ngoy, as his devastated family released a touching tribute to him.
The 18-year-old had just completed his GCSE exams and was ‘excited’ about his future.
“If Leon could speak to others today, we believe he would have one important message: no matter how safe the water may look, it is never worth taking the risk,” said his family in a statement released by Greater Manchester Police on their behalf.
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“We will always wonder what might have been if different choices had been made.”
Leon’s family went on to speak of a ‘tragic accident’, and said there was no one else to blame.
Emergency services descended on Clifton Country Park, in Salford, on Saturday, June 27, after the alarm was raised. A major search operation was launched, with crews working through to the following Monday. Tragically, the search came to an end when his body was recovered.
Tributes to Leon at the scene(Image: Phil Taylor)
In the tribute, Leon’s family said: “Leon was our baby, our brother, our best friend and the heart of our family. He was kind, respectful, thoughtful and loved by everyone who knew him.
“No matter where he went, Leon brought energy, laughter and happiness. People will always remember his infectious smile, his sense of humour and the way he treated others with kindness and compassion.
“Leon had just completed his GCSEs and was excited about the future. He loved basketball, fashion, music and spending time with family and friends. He had big ambitions and dreams he was looking forward to pursuing.
“As a family, we are devastated by his loss. The support we have received from relatives, friends and our community has meant so much to us during this incredibly difficult time.
Clifton Country Park(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“We want people to know that nobody was to blame for what happened. It was a tragic accident that has changed our lives forever.
“If Leon could speak to others today, we believe he would have one important message: no matter how safe the water may look, it is never worth taking the risk. We will always wonder what might have been if different choices had been made. If Leon had gone to the local swimming baths instead of the Clifton Country Park that day, he would still be with us.
“In sharing Leon’s story, we hope that other families never have to experience the unimaginable pain and heartbreak that we are living through. Leon was deeply loved, and we will carry his memory with us always.”
The tragedy – one of several similar open water deaths in Greater Manchester during the recent heatwaves – sparked renewed calls from the emergency services to stay out of canals, rivers and reservoirs.