Candles lit at vigil for boy who drowned in river

A community has gathered to light candles in memory of a 14-year-old boy who died after getting into difficulty in the River Thames.

The vigil for Baltazar L'Quy was held this evening at St Mary's Church in Iffley, Oxford, after the teenager's death near Donnington Bridge on Wednesday.

Rev Clare Hayns said it was important to provide a space for the community to grieve together.

"It's very little in some ways, but it's something we can do for Baltazar's family and friends," she said.

The vicar added: "One of the very first people who came was a young boy who was a friend of his from school.

"He came in with his family and lit a candle and then he asked if I'd come and pray with them."

She said the community was also thinking practically about water safety, and that she had been in contact with the Sea Cadets about speaking to local young people.

Alex Marshall, who has lived in the area for about 40 years, told the BBC he came to show support even though he did not know Baltazar personally.

"It's not the first time it's happened at Donnington Bridge," he said. "We just want to show we are offering love."

Previously speaking to the BBC, a member of the Oxford Timorese Community Association said it was a "heartbreaking time".

"This tragedy is very sad and is shocking to most parents - not only within the East Timor community," they added.

Baltazar's death was one of 11 water-related fatalities during the recent heatwave, which has prompted warnings from the Royal Life Saving Society about the dangers of cold water shock.

Thames Valley Police said his death was unexplained but not suspicious.

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