A YOUNG boy jumped into a lock on the Rochdale Canal in Middleton during June with others in an attempt to cure his fear of water, but drowned.
Rafael Pizarro, 13, leapt into the water together with friends, after they did a countdown together but after hitting the water he panicked with his arms flailing and gasping for breath, then disappeared under the surface.
Attempted rescue
His three friends attempted to rescue him but were unsuccessful, and it was not until later (one report states he was pulled out 20 minutes later by a passer-by whilst another report tells he was found when the lock was emptied) that he was taken to hospital.
The inquest heard that the teenagers had been jumping into the lock, and that two girls, a boy and Rafael were lined up at the lock side and counted down three, two, one, jump and they all jumped into the lock.
In difficulty
As Rafael was obviously in difficulty the two girls and the other boy swam to help him but his flailing arms made it impossible with the helpers being pushed under the water, until eventually Rafael sank down.
Once again, a mother called for signs warning children not to jump into the water, stating that there were no warnings.