Teenager was using canoe when tragedy struck in River Croal, Bolton – latest

He had been one of four in a group when tragedy struck on Tuesday evening.

The Bolton News has learnt the group were using two inflatable canoes at the time of the incident.

Emergency services were called  at around 8pm on Tuesday evening.

After an extensive search which involved fire, police, ambulance and mountain rescue a boy, 17, was pulled out of the water.

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Detective Inspector Stuart Woodhead said: “This is an extremely upsetting and distressing incident for those involved due to the tragic circumstances and we are continuing to support their loved ones at this time.”

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At around 8pm on Tuesday 9 April, fire crews were called to a reports of a person in the water near Raikes Lane in Bolton. 

“Two fire engines from Bolton Central fire station, as well as the water incident unit from Heywood and the technical response unit from Leigh, quickly attended the scene. 

“Firefighters recovered a 17-year-old male from the water who was then conveyed to hospital, but despite the best efforts of emergency services he sadly passed away. This was a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the young man’s family and friends.” 

A spokesperson for the North West Ambulance Service said: “Following a 999 call at 19.53 reporting a person in the water, we sent three response vehicles, an ambulance and our Hazardous Area Response Team to the scene.

“Following the rescue of the patient from the river, we provided initial treatment before taking them to the hospital.”