A teenage boy has died following a tragic incident at Lodge Farm Reservoir in Netherton, prompting a substantial emergency response. West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed the death after extensive search and rescue efforts on the evening of July 23, 2024.

The emergency services were alerted to the situation at 6.11 pm, with the first responders arriving at the scene within nine minutes. Three ambulances, two paramedic officers, and specialist paramedics from the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) were dispatched to manage the crisis.

James Williams, Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, expressed his sorrow over the incident, stating, “This is a truly tragic outcome, and we offer our heartfelt condolences to the boy’s family and friends. Our specialist water rescue HART paramedics were immediately deployed into the water to join fellow emergency service colleagues in the search.

Despite the rapid response and the efforts of multiple emergency teams, including police, fire services, and specialist divers, the boy was found deceased by the dive team. Paramedics confirmed his death at the scene.

The local community has been thanked for their cooperation during the ongoing emergency operations at the reservoir. Williams added, “We would like to thank the public and local community for their continued cooperation whilst emergency colleagues remain at the scene.

The incident has deeply affected the community, with local authorities urging visitors to exercise caution around water bodies. Further investigations are underway to determine the circumstances leading up to the tragic event.