Nigerian-British Teen Drowns After Jumping Off Pier in South Wales as Coroner Cites Lack of Safety Measures

David was described by his mother as a 'cautious' swimmer

A 15-year-old boy, David Chiaka Ejimofor, tragically drowned after jumping from the breakwater at Aberavon, Neath Port Talbot, on the evening of June 19, 2023. A coroner has now ruled that inadequate safety measures contributed to his untimely death.

At the inquest, Coroner Edward Ramsay highlighted that there were no effective deterrents present on the day of the incident to prevent David from accessing the dangerous area. While signage indicating restricted access may have been present, Ramsay noted the lack of physical barriers and questioned whether David even saw the signs.

The coroner stated that David might not have jumped had a lifeguard been on duty, suggesting that such presence could have potentially prevented the fatal incident. Lifeguard patrols typically operate between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., and the drowning occurred shortly after 7 p.m.

David had expressed 'caution' about jumping into the war, the inquest heard

David, described by his mother Maria Ejimofor as a “cautious” swimmer, had previously received swimming lessons. His phone history showed he was planning to swim later that day but had also expressed concerns about jumping into the water.

Upon entering the sea, David encountered immediate difficulty. Although he had some swimming ability, it was ultimately not strong enough to keep him afloat. His friends made desperate attempts to help him, but were unsuccessful.

Off-duty police officer Tyler Rowland, who was paddleboarding nearby, responded swiftly and helped bring David to shore. Members of the public also provided CPR until emergency services arrived. Despite their combined efforts, David was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:05 p.m.

Coroner Ramsay formally commended Officer Rowland and the bystanders for their brave and selfless actions. He also announced plans to issue a prevention of future deaths report to address the circumstances surrounding David’s death.

David Ejimofor died in June 2023

In response to the tragedy, the owner of the breakwater expressed its “deepest sympathy” to David’s family, friends, and community. The company also confirmed it is working with local authorities to enhance water safety at Port Talbot.

Neath Port Talbot Council reiterated its condolences and stated that, together with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), it is actively monitoring beach activity for the 2025 season and will continue reviewing safety protocols. The council affirmed that it will formally respond to the coroner’s concerns in due course.