Teenager Dies in River Incident in Dumfries
Police have identified a teenager who died following a river incident just days after celebrating his 18th birthday.
Benjamin Glen, a resident of Dumfries, lost his life after encountering difficulties in a section of the River Nith within his hometown.
Emergency services responded at approximately 18:50 on Thursday to reports of a person in the water near the Kingholm Road area of Dumfries. His body was subsequently recovered.
The death is not being treated as suspicious, and a report will be forwarded to the procurator fiscal.
Related Incident in the Highlands
On the same day, a separate incident occurred in the Highlands where a body was recovered from a remote loch after a 17-year-old boy experienced difficulties in the water.
Emergency Response and Search Efforts
In Dumfries, the Portling and Annan coastguard rescue teams participated in the search efforts, alongside the Nith Inshore Rescue lifeboat.
Additional emergency services present included Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), and the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS).
Community Impact and Support
Dumfries and Galloway Council confirmed that the teenager was a former pupil of a local school in the region.
"This is a sad day for Dumfries and Galloway. Our thoughts are with the family and friends at this very tragic time.
Measures are in place to support young people and staff, and their wellbeing remains our priority."
Fire and Rescue Service Statement
SFRS area commander Derek Heaton stated that two fire appliances and several specialist water rescue resources were dispatched to the scene.
"Our thoughts are very much with his family, friends and the wider community at this difficult time."
Ambulance Service and Hospitalization
The Scottish Ambulance Service confirmed dispatching two ambulances to the incident. Additionally, a woman was transported to Dumfries Infirmary for treatment.
Incident Context and Location Details
The incident occurred on one of the hottest days of the year so far, in an area frequented by dog walkers, joggers, and cyclists.
The River Nith is tidal, with water levels capable of rising and falling rapidly. A riverside path extends from Dock Park to Kingholm Quay, providing access along the river.
There is convenient access to the riverside at multiple points on both sides of the river, with shallow bankings nearby.
