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Family tribute to boy, 15, after lake death

Family Handout A close up black and white image of a young man looking into the camera, he is standing on a football pitch. Family Handout
Izaiah Smith died on Friday after swimming in a lake at Beckenham Place Park

The family of a 15-year-old boy who died after he went swimming in a lake in south-east London have paid tribute to his "infectious smile, charm, kindness, and unwavering dedication to others".

Izaiah Smith was found in Beckenham Place Park, in the borough of Lewisham, at 22:42 BST on Friday, more than seven hours after police were initially alerted that he was having difficulty in the water.

A GoFundMe page has been set up by the parents of children and staff at Kingsdale Foundation School in West Dulwich, where Izaiah was a pupil.

There, his family said "his bright future was tragically cut short in a drowning accident, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew him".

PA Media The entrance to the park with black metal gate and fencing. In the back ground there is parkland with trees and a partial view of the lake. There is a shot of a police officer walking towards the lake, a car, white tent.PA Media
The lake at Beckenham Place Park remains closed with security in place until further notice

The family tribute continues: "A rising football talent, he poured his passion into sports, striving daily to grow both on and off the field.

"His legacy is one of love, perseverance, and the joy he brought to every moment and everyone.

"We have been deeply comforted by the outpouring of love and support during this unimaginable time."

In a post on X, Dorking Wanderers FC said Izaiah was a "hugely popular" and "talented" player.

"We are absolutely devastated to learn of the passing of one of our young footballers - Izaiah Smith. It is of course impossible to find the words to explain what a tragedy this is," the post said.

'A bright light'

The tribute added: "Izaiah was a hugely popular and talented young man and will be sorely missed by all that knew him. The club will provide support for all involved in whatever way we possibly can.

"In the meantime all of our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates at this incredibly difficult time."

Starz Elite Development Academy also paid tribute in a post on Instagram.

"Izaiah was such a bright light within our programme. Always present at training, he greeted everyone with the most adorable smile.

"His huge character and infectious energy will be deeply missed by us all. He was a truly respectful young man, always showing kindness and consideration to all the coaches and staff."

A sign warning about general safety within the grounds of the lake. There are red circles saying No Diving, No Inflatables, and Children must have adult supervision.
Specialist diving teams, ambulance crews and firefighters helped in the search for Izaiah

Scotland Yard said police were called shortly after 15:00 BST on Friday after reports that a boy had got into difficulty in the water.

Specialist diving teams, ambulance crews and firefighters helped in the search, the force said.

A Met spokesperson previously said the teenager was recovered from the water and taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

His death is being treated as unexpected but not suspicious.

A Lewisham Council spokesperson said the lake would remain closed with security in place "until further notice".

Kingsdale Foundation School said a book of condolence had been opened and added it was offering support for students and parents affected by the tragedy.

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