Campaigners have called for urgent safety measures at Bristol Harbour after more than a dozen bodies were pulled from the water in the past decade
Bristol harbour where a number of young men have fallen to their deaths in recent years (Tom Wren / SWNS)
A petition has been launched to curb an ‘alarming’ number of deaths in a city’s harbour – including two in less than a month.
Campaigners have called for urgent safety measures at Bristol Harbour after more than a dozen bodies were pulled from the water in the past decade.
The two latest tragedies include police officer, Rehaan Akhtar, 28, whose body was recovered last month and another casualty, known only as Michael, who was found at the same spot just weeks later.
And locals say enough is enough with stats showing an alarming number of young men who have drowned at the same stretch of water over the last 11 years.
A petition on Change.org was created by Emma Miller earlier this month, which calls for safety measures to be installed in the area to “prevent further loss of life”.
The appeal has called for railings and clear signage to be installed, as well as CCTV cameras to provide crucial footage in emergencies.
Bristol harbour where a number of young men have fallen to their deaths in recent years (Tom Wren / SWNS)
The petition said: “Over the past decade, Bristol’s vibrant harbour has witnessed multiple drownings, leaving families devastated and communities heartbroken.
“Despite these tragic incidents, no substantial safety measures have been implemented to prevent further loss of life. As a concerned member of the Bristol community, I urge our local government to take immediate action to make Bristol harbour safer for everyone.”
Avon Fire and Rescue Service said it had recorded 13 people who had accidentally drowned in the city between 2014 and 2022.
Among them was Jason Gurgul, a 33-year-old father of two, who was last seen in the early hours of 29 April 2017 during a night out in the city centre.
Avon and Somerset police divers recovered his body near Welsh Back.
The body of Lewis Ball, 26, was also found in Bristol’s Floating Harbour three weeks after he disappeared following a night out at the Thekla nightclub on Sunday 5 February 2017.
Rehaan Akhtar who died in Bristol Harbour.
Deakon Wilkins
Divers also recovered the body of Bristol University student Olisa Odukwe, 20, from Bristol Harbour in May 2021.
Deakon Wilkins, from Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, died at the age of just 24 and was also found in the water after being last seen alive leaving a nightclub in the city in the early hours of 14 January 2017.
Abdulkadir Mahamoud, 29, who was last seen alive leaving his home in the Easton area of the city on 24 February 2017, also died in the harbour with his body being recovered on 17 March 2017.
Since the fire service released the numbers in 2022, the number has risen higher with further casualties including 35-year-old teacher Vincent Le Goascoz, who died in Bristol harbour, having gone missing during a Saturday night out in the city in December 2023.
A council report also highlighted two other deaths at Bristol harbour this year.
Colin Chudley, 68, died after suffering a suspected heart attack on April 12 while kayaking alone on the Feeder canal.
Another person, who was not named, died by suspected suicide at the harbour on March 4.
The petition, launched in the wake of the two recent deaths, adds: “Bristol harbour is a popular destination for residents and tourists alike, offering a wealth of activities and bustling nightlife. However, its appeal should not come at the cost of human lives.
“Current safety measures are inadequate, particularly for protecting those participating in said nightlife, where alcohol can impair judgment and increase the risk of accidents in the water.
“The absence of effective railings is a significant factor in these incidents. Installing robust railings along high-risk areas could prevent accidental falls into the harbour, providing a physical barrier that could save lives.
“Furthermore, the inclusion of clear signage highlighting potential dangers will raise awareness for all visitors, encouraging vigilance around the water.
“Additionally, the strategic placement of CCTV cameras across the harbour can serve a dual purpose: deterring risky behaviour and providing crucial footage in emergencies, assisting rescue efforts and helping investigations post-incident.
“In the UK, it’s reported that approximately 400 people drown each year, with Bristol harbour contributing to this unfortunate count.
“Many of these incidents involve alcohol consumption, a known risk factor in drowning cases. Implementing improved safety measures has been proven to reduce accidents and save lives in similar settings across the country.
“This petition calls on the Bristol City Council to prioritize the safety of its citizens and visitors by investing in infrastructure that prevents accidents and supports emergency responses effectively. Let us not wait for another tragedy before action is taken.”
Abdulkadir Mahamoud.
Vincent Le Goascoz
Bristol City Council previously said that it extended sympathy to PC Akhtar’s family and highlighted the need for caution by the water.
PC Akhtar had been drinking with friends in Bristol and was last seen in the early hours of November 23.
Avon Coroner’s Court heard PC Akhtar did not return to the hostel where he was staying and was reported missing.
His body was recovered by divers from Bristol harbourside on the morning of November 24.
Mr Akhtar, from Llanelli, was a constable with South Wales Police. He first joined the force as a police community support officer (PCSO).
He was a PCSO in Cardiff from October 2021 and became a PC based in Swansea in September 2023.
Bristol City Council has now highlighted the need for caution next to the water particularly for those enjoying the city’s nightlife.
The council said: “There are already several safety features already in place but there are regular routine discussions about how this can be improved whilst retaining the historic characteristic of the Harbour”.
Councillor Andrew Brown, Chair of the Harbour Committee, added: “This tragic incident is a stark reminder of how important it is to take extra care near the Harbourside, especially if you have been drinking or are on your own.
“Please don’t be tempted to sit by the water at night or stand close to the edge.
“Cold water shock can make it extremely difficult to get out, particularly if you are intoxicated.”