Boy, 11, died after being swept out to sea and becoming trapped in whirlpool, inquest told
AN 11-YEAR-OLD boy was swept out to sea before being sucked into a whirlpool and tragically drowning, an inquest heard today.
Zac Thompson died from a lack of oxygen to the brain and drowning in the waters off West Angle Bay in Wales at 9pm on July 1 last year.
It was suggested Zac, from Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire was sitting with his brother and cousin on the rocks overlooking the bay when a large wave pulled them into the water.
Although his brother and cousin were able to reach dry land, Zac was pulled out into a whirlpool.
The inquest heard how the boys had been planning to swim in the dangerous waters.
A passer-by helped Zac’s brother and cousin pull him out the water, but he died a day later after being airlifted to hospital.
Assistant coroner Mark Layton recorded a conclusion of accidental death at Haverfordwest.
He said: “Despite their best efforts, Zac had sustained injuries from which he did not recover.”
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Coroner’s officer PC James Lang said that there was no evidence suggesting foul-play or third-party involvement.
A tribute submitted by Carli Newell said: “Zac was a complete one of a kind.
“He was funny, cheeky, kind, caring, courageous and a big ball of fun with mischief running through his bones.
A water safety charity, Forever 11, has been set up in Zac’s memory.
Michele Thomas, Zac’s head teacher at Pembroke Dock Community School, told the BBC: “Zac attended the school since he was two years old.
“Even back then, he was a big character.
“He was intelligent, caring, funny and sport mad.
“We have always been very proud of Zac, he was an absolute star.
“Zac had a warm heart and frequently spoke about the love he had for his family and friends.
“He was a talented sportsman and has left a huge void in that year group, who will all remember him forever 11.”