Warning after death from cold water shock

AN 18-year-old student drowned from cold water shock during a nighttime dip in 'turbulent' sea conditions.

- By NICK IRVING AND CARL EVE

Michael Oppong-Yeboah had gone for a night time swim with friends from his university jiu jitsu society after a meal out when tragedy struck off The Hoe in March 2024.

Following a Christmas Day tragedy only days ago in nearby Budleigh Salterton, Devon, when two swimmers died in a traditional festive swim, the coroner issued a warning.

Assistant Devon coroner Ian Arrow said as he concluded teenager Michael’s inquest: "I do hope the publicity surrounding the circumstances of his death makes members of the public aware of the very great danger of entering cold and rough seas particularly at night."

Michael, a University of Plymouth environmental science student, died from cold water immersion after he jumped into the water at East Hoe beach with around ten friends.

The inquest at Exeter Coroner's Court was told he swam a short distance before treading water. He then shouted for help but was hit by a wave and disappeared from sight in the gloom.

The coroner was told he succumbed to cold water shock which affected his ability to swim and maintain his position in the sea.

A large-scale search was conducted, with Devon and Cornwall Police and the Coastguard searching the area near Tinside Lido.

His body was not found for three weeks and was recovered from the water in Devonport naval dockyard.