Man, 21, died ‘trying to save girl in reservoir’
A MAN who died while apparently trying to help a young girl in difficulty in a Midland reservoir has been named as Carl Storer.
Mr Storer, aged 21, from Tamworth, went into Chasewater reservoir, in Staffordshire, to help a nine-year-old girl. She escaped but his body was recovered a short time later.
Emergency services including West Midlands Ambulance Service, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and Staffordshire Air Ambulance all attended at around 6pm on Sunday.
In a tribute to Carl, his family said: “You were a really good brother and you will be deeply missed by family and friends. Rest in peace and fly with the eagles. You will always be loved.”
Sergeant Fay Mills, from the Lichfield Neighbourhood
Policing Team, said: “Carl’s family are receiving support from specially-trained officers and our thoughts are with them at this time. We are working with partners to establish the circumstances of his death and a report is being prepared for the coroners. We have an increased officer presence at the park today to offer reassurance and we would encourage everyone to avoid swimming in open water for their own safety.”
Mark Winnington, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet member responsible for Chasewater, said: “Everyone is upset to hear the news of the tragic event at Chasewater reservoir and it is so sad that a day out enjoying the summer sun has ended in tragedy for this young man and his family. Our thoughts are with his loved ones today.
“Though we do not yet know the full circumstances, it is a sad reminder of how even the strongest swimmer can find themselves struggling while swimming in cold water. We all want to enjoy the warmer weather, but our advice to everyone is not to be tempted to cool off by swimming unsupervised in open waters.”
Police continue to investigate the circumstances of what happened. A number of people were seen filming the incident and officers are reminding the public to not share footage publicly as it may be of a distressing nature. Instead call 101 to find out how to submit any footage.