15-Year-Old Izaiah Smith Remembered After Drowning in London Park Lake

The promising young footballer’s death has prompted tributes from his community and an ongoing investigation into water safety at Beckenham Place Park.

Izaiah Smith, 15, drowned on April 4, 2025, after getting into difficulty in the lake at Beckenham Place Park in southeast London.
Specialist diving teams, paramedics, and firefighters conducted a seven-hour search before recovering his body late Friday evening.
Tributes from Izaiah’s football clubs, Seda Academy and Dorking Wanderers FC, highlight his talent, kindness, and positive impact on those around him.
The lake remains closed with security in place as Lewisham Council and police continue their investigation into the incident.
The tragedy has raised concerns about water safety at public swimming areas, with the lake being a popular but potentially hazardous recreational site.