Oxford inquest into boy who died in River Thames to open

Baltazar Da Costa died aged 14 on May 27 when he struggled in the water near Donnington Bridge in Oxford.

Emergency services and passers-by attempted to save his life, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Senior coroner Darren Salter will open the inquest into his death at County Hall Coroner’s Court on Wednesday, June 10.

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At the time, one eyewitness told us that Baltazar was “not alone” in his final moments as people attempted to rescue him.

She said: “She said: “I wanted to send my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family during this unimaginably difficult time.

“I was there that evening, and I want you to know from the bottom of my heart that he was not alone.

“Several of us who were present did absolutely everything humanly possible to find him and help him. We didn’t leave his side for a single moment.

“We are holding you in our thoughts and sending you all the love and support in the world. May your sweet angel rest in peace.”

Baltazar, of Timorese descent in south east Asia, was previously named by the Oxford Timorese Community Association.

The inquest opening will likely give a medical cause of death for Baltazar.