Amid reports divulging details concerning Izaiah Smith’s death, an outpouring of tributes dedicated to the late teen has ensued, and a GoFundMe page has been started to support his family.
The tragic death of a promising young athlete has rocked a local London community. Izaiah Smith, a 15-year-old soccer star on the rise, passed away after going for a swim. As tributes pour in and his school rallies behind his grieving family, emerging details surrounding the circumstances of his passing paint a heartbreaking picture of a vibrant life lost far too soon.
Smith was found dead late Friday night (April 4, 2025) after entering the waters of a lake located in Beckenham Place Park, situated in South East London.
Authorities confirmed that his body was discovered at approximately 10:40 p.m. BST following a search operation conducted by specialist dive teams. The Metropolitan Police stated that while the death is considered “unexpected,” it is not believed to be suspicious.
The force notified Smith’s family and shared that specialist officers are supporting them during this incredibly difficult time.
In the wake of the tragedy, Lewisham Council has taken precautionary steps to secure the area. While the wider Beckenham Place Park has reopened, the lake remains closed as a safety measure, with security stationed on-site “until further notice,” as they put it.
A spokesperson for the council expressed the community’s collective sorrow, stating, “We send our thoughts and deepest condolences to his family and friends. We are working closely with the police in order that their investigation establishes the full facts of what’s happened.”
Smith’s untimely passing is particularly poignant as another heartbreaking incident involving 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa — who went missing in the River Thames — unfolded just days later. According to the Met, a “recovery mission” remains underway in her case.
The late teen’s educational institution, Kingsdale Foundation School, and the wider community have been left heartbroken in the wake of Smith’s passing.
In a letter addressed to parents, guardians, and carers, Headteacher Steve Morrison extended heartfelt thanks for the “kind words and ongoing support at this very difficult time,” acknowledging the emotional toll of the tragedy across the school’s extended network.
As tributes continue to pour in, the school has established several ways for the community to collectively grieve. A book of condolence has been made available on school grounds and will remain open throughout the holiday period and beyond. “Those who have expressed a wish to leave flowers, cards and tributes for the family can also do so,” the letter states.
Morrison clarified that students and parents may contact the school for support via an email address he attached with the statement.
The headteacher also relayed a message from Smith’s family, describing it as one that echoed the sentiments of the entire Kingsdale community.
The family began their statement by saying, “It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved Izaiah; cherished son, brother, cousin, nephew, classmate, and friend. His bright future was tragically cut short in a drowning accident, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew him.”
Remembered for far more than his athletic abilities, Smith’s loved ones highlighted how he uniquely uplifted those around him — his “infectious smile, charm, kindness, and unwavering dedication to others” turned ordinary moments into bright ones. As a rising soccer talent, he devoted himself to constant growth on and off the field.
The family described his legacy as one of “love, perseverance, and the joy he brought to every moment and everyone.” The loved ones also acknowledged the overwhelming support from the community in the days following his death, sharing that they have been “deeply comforted by the outpouring of love and support during this unimaginable time.”
To honor Smith’s memory, his family invited those who feel moved to do so to contribute toward funeral and bereavement expenses, adding, “Each gesture will help us create a fitting tribute to celebrate his remarkable but short life and the light he shared with the world.”
They also encouraged anyone wishing to leave messages, memories, or condolences to do so through Kingsdale Foundation School, where their words could become “a lasting comfort to our family as we navigate this loss.” In closing, the family reiterated their gratitude to those who have already offered their support, writing, “Your love has been a beacon of strength and light in our darkest hours.”
Anchored within Smith’s family’s tribute is a link to a GoFundMe page. Titled “In Loving Memory of Izaiah,” the fundraiser was launched by Cara Gbemew on behalf of the parents of children and staff at Kingsdale Foundation School to assist Smith’s grieving family.
The campaign’s message reads, “We would like to raise funds in honour [sic] of Izaiah Smith who was sadly taken from many loved ones on Friday the 4th Of April. All donations will be greatly appreciated to support his family in this difficult time.”
