A 17-year-old boy from Crewe died after disappearing underwater while swimming with friends at Pickmere Lake on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
The incident occurred amid a record-breaking heatwave across the United Kingdom.
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Emergency responders launched an extensive search at approximately 4:50 p. m.
British Summer Time.
Cheshire Police confirmed that the body of David Tita Jr was recovered from the water later that evening.
Local authorities stated the drowning is not being treated as suspicious.
Pickmere Lake has been temporarily closed to the public following the fatal incident.
The tragedy happened during a period of extreme weather that has claimed at least 12 lives in open water incidents across the country, according to reports.
Other young victims identified during the recent heatwave include 15-year-old Declan Sawyer in Lincoln, 13-year-old Reco Puttock in West Yorkshire, and 12-year-old Junior Slater in Lancashire.
Following the recovery, David's family issued a public statement through the police.
"No words will ever describe the loss of our son," the family said.
"This pain in our chests will never leave us and will forever be within our hearts."
The family described David as compassionate, sensitive, brave, and full of light.
"When he smiled, it was as mountains smile to see the spring," they said.
They noted that he was not only a son but a friend, a brother, and a supportive force to his family and the wider Crewe community.
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The relatives expressed that they were deprived of the opportunity to watch him grow older and start his own family.
"You were ripped away from having a full and rich life," they added.
The family concluded by saying they will honor his memory each day.
"Tonight, and tomorrow and for the rest of our lives, we will look for you in the stars, the heavens and through sunsets."
"We love David and that's something no one can take away from us."
Community Fundraiser for Funeral Costs
In response to the incident, community member Leon Webster established a JustGiving online fundraising campaign.
The campaign aims to collect £2,500 to assist the grieving family with funeral costs.
"David unfortunately passed away and this JustGiving page is dedicated to him," Webster wrote.
All funds gathered will go directly to David's family to aid in funding his funeral.
The multi-agency emergency response included Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, a police helicopter, and specialist underwater search teams.
Chief Inspector Jamie Lewis said: "This was a young boy who had his entire life ahead of him."
He extended condolences and urged visitors to recognize open water hazards.
Water safety charities, including the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, have issued warnings regarding cold water shock.
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They note that open water temperatures remain dangerously low despite high air temperatures.
