The family of 13-year-old Rafael Pizarro, who died after falling into a canal in Middleton, have paid tribute to him

Rafael Pizarro

The family of a 13-year-old Rafael Pizarro, who died after falling into a canal in Middleton, have paid tribute to him.

Shortly after 8pm on Sunday 6 June 2016, police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and North West Ambulance Services were called to Coney Green Lock of the Rochdale Canal in Middleton to reports that a 13-year-old boy had fallen into the canal.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/103385/boy-in-critical-condition-after-nearly-drowning-in-canal-in-middleton

The boy, who has since been formally identified as Rafael, was taken to hospital but died in the early hours of Tuesday (14 June). 

There are believed to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Paying tribute to him, Rafael’s family said: “We are devastated with the loss of Rafael and are lost for words. It is hard to comprehend what has happened over the last week.

“Rafael had a big impact on his family and friends and was much loved and we will truly miss him.

“Out of this tragedy we are comforted to know that's his organ donation will help others in Manchester and across the country.

“We would like to thank the staff at Manchester Children's Hospital for their support and hard work caring for Rafael.

“As a family we would urge all parents to talk to their children around water safety so no other family have to go through what we are dealing with. We would ask for privacy at this time to grieve.

“We will pray for Rafael. We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28.”

Detective Inspector Kate Atton, GMP Rochdale Borough, said: “Rafael’s death is believed to be a tragic accident and the case will now be passed to the coroner for progression.

“My thoughts are with Rafael’s family and friends as well as his school colleague’s at this terrible and sad time.

“I would urge people, especially children, to take care around the water and try not to swim anywhere other than supervised swimming pools.”