### Coroner Warns of Further Tragedies After Aberavon Beach Drowning
Concerns over beach safety have been highlighted at a Swansea inquest following the tragic death of a local teenager, with warnings from a coroner that without urgent intervention further fatalities could occur at Aberavon beach in Port Talbot.
David Ejimofor, a 15-year-old student from St Joseph’s Comprehensive School, lost his life on 19 June 2023 after jumping from the pier at Aberavon’s so-called “little beach”, a spot unofficially used by youngsters as a diving platform. The inquest heard that despite repeated use of the pier for such risky activities, no lifeguard was present and deterrent measures were found lacking on the day.
David, who was described as both a gifted weightlifter and athlete, had reportedly conducted online searches that showed a lack of swimming experience prior to the incident. Witnesses told the inquest that David had been anxious before jumping, but was encouraged by his friends to join them in the water. Tragically, he found himself in significant difficulty immediately after entering the sea.
Efforts to save David were valiantly made by members of the public, including off-duty police officer Tyler Rowland, who managed to reach David on the seabed and bring him back towards the shore with the help of others and a life ring. Despite their swift actions, and subsequent attempts by emergency services, David was pronounced dead at the beach. The post-mortem, led by Dr John Williams, confirmed death by drowning.
Coroner Edward Ramsay was forthright in his assessment, stating that the lack of lifeguard cover, effective signage, and physical barriers meant David and his friends had “effectively unrestricted and undeterred access” to the pier, exposing them to significant danger. “A lifeguard might have prevented David from jumping that evening,” Mr Ramsay commented, while emphasising there was no criticism to be directed at David’s friends.
The inquest uncovered that existing issues remain unresolved. The RNLI’s regional lead for Wales, Peter Rooney, testified that the little beach is still not supervised by lifeguards, even in peak season. Since David’s death, the pier’s owners, Associated British Holdings Ltd, have installed a gate to restrict access, yet Mr Rooney observed that it was relatively easy to bypass, allowing the dangerous activity to continue.
Risk assessments undertaken by the RNLI following the incident classified the beach’s danger as low to medium, a point challenged by Mr Ramsay given the repeated risky behaviour and fatal outcome. He announced his intention to file a formal prevention of future deaths report, pressing for a review of safety measures to protect the public.
The emotional cost of the tragedy has been keenly felt within the local community, with David remembered as a much-loved son, sibling, and friend. Floral tributes continue to mark the site on Aberavon beach, as family and friends grapple with the impact of his sudden loss.
In the wake of the inquest, the RNLI expressed its condolences to David’s family and reiterated its commitment to water safety education. A spokesperson explained that while the charity provides lifeguard patrols at the request of landowners, other safety measures, such as improved signage and barriers, are just as vital, since lifeguards cannot be stationed everywhere at all times.
The coroner ultimately recorded a verdict of misadventure, noting the accessible pier and lack of deterrents as contributory factors. “Proper consideration of lifeguard coverage has been lacking,” Mr Ramsay concluded, “and a lifeguard should probably have been on duty that day.” His report is expected to be published soon, outlining possible steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This case has prompted further dialogue between Neath Port Talbot Council, the RNLI, and local landowners regarding effective strategies to reduce risk at Aberavon and other popular beaches across Wales. It remains to be seen what measures will be adopted, but for many in Port Talbot, David Ejimofor’s legacy may well be lasting change to safeguard others.