RESIDENTS are today asking questions about why a missing lifebelt had not been replaced at a pond where a teenager died in Ipswich this weekend.

Russell Claydon

RESIDENTS are today asking questions about why a missing lifebelt had not been replaced at a pond where a teenager died in Ipswich this weekend.

The 15-year-old boy, who is from the Ipswich area, had got into trouble swimming in the water wedged between Sproughton Road and Jovian Way yesterday.

He was pulled out of the water by rescue teams following an intensive search but was pronounced dead at Ipswich Hospital.

A resident who called the emergency services after hearing the boy yelling for help ran over to a life belt stand, but found nothing in it.

He said: “It is horrific when you are standing there so helpless. I cannot swim and help him. That is why I ran over to get this life buoy.”

Police have said the death is being treated as unexplained but there are no suspicious circumstances. The case has now been referred to the coroner.

Shocked residents living on a three-year-old development in Jovian Way, which borders the pond, have told of their horror at what unfolded this afternoon.

A 45-year-old father of two said: “I was in Morrison's and I just saw the helicopter come down.

“The pond is 15ft deep this side and hard to get down to.

“I had let my kids play out here and did not know it was here but now it is a no go area.”

If you knew the Ipswich teenager post your tributes below or contact the newsdesk by calling us on: 01473 324738 or emailing russell.claydon@eadt.co.uk.