Boy, 13, dies after ‘getting into difficulty’ while swimming with friends in Swansea river

A teenager has died after he got into difficulty while swimming with friends in a river in Wales.

The 13-year-old had been swimming in the River Tawe in Swansea on Tuesday evening when he “had not been seen to exit the river”, South Wales Police said.

A police helicopter and the coastguard were called and carried out an extensive search and the boy was found roughly one hour later.

Despite efforts, the boy could not be resuscitated.

An investigation has now been launched into the circumstances of the incident and the boy's family is being supported by specialist officers.

Dc Kristian Burt, of South Wales Police, told Wales Online: “At 4.59pm yesterday, Tuesday May 24 , a report was received that children had been swimming in the River Tawe, Morriston, Swansea.

"A 13-year-old boy had got into difficulty and had not been seen to exit the river.

"An extensive search was carried out by police, fire, ambulance, coastguard and the police helicopter.

“The boy’s body was located in the river near the Swansea Enterprise Park at around 6pm and was unable to be resuscitated despite the efforts of the emergency services. His family have been informed and are being supported at this time.

"HM Coroner has been informed and an investigation into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.”