See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred SourceBy NOOR QURASHI, NEWS REPORTER Published: 21:15 BST, 7 July 2026 | Updated: 01:33 BST, 8 July 2026
The family of a teenager who died during a Duke of Edinburgh expedition have spoken of their heartbreak at the loss of their 'loving boy'.Umar Dumbuya, from London, took part in the hike last week in Powys, Wales but was found unresponsive after entering the River Wye.Emergency services including police, fire and mountain rescue were called after reports someone had entered the water before going missing.After hours of searching, police discovered Umar's body.The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) has said it is working with the relevant authorities to determine how the tragedy occurred.Paying tribute, Umar's family described him as a kind and caring young man who brought warmth and laughter to those around him.They said: 'We are heartbroken by the loss of our son, brother and grandson.'There are no words that can describe the pain we are feeling as a family. Umar Dumbuya (pictured), from London, took part in the hike last week in Powys, Wales but was found unresponsive after entering the River Wye Emergency services including police, fire and mountain rescue were called after reports someone had entered the water before going missing. The River Wye in Glasbury, where Umar went missing, is pictured 'Umar was a loving boy and will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.'Umar loved spending time playing basketball, attending the gym, and spending time with friends and family.'We will always remember Umar for his kindness, warmth, and sense of humour.'His death has left a devastating hole in our family and we now ask for privacy as we take time to grieve.'DofE said: 'We are deeply saddened to confirm that a young person has drowned while on a DofE expedition in Powys, Wales.'Our thoughts are with the young person's family together with all those who were taking part.'We will do everything we can to support them at this difficult time.'DofE is liaising closely with the young person's college and relevant authorities to understand how this tragic incident happened.'We are offering our full support.'Leyton Sixth Form College has launched a GoFundMe page to support the family with funeral expenses.A statement on the page said: 'It is with profound sadness that we share the heart-breaking loss of a much-loved student who tragically passed away in a sudden accident.'Umar will be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and the positive impact he had on his family, friends, classmates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing them.'Umar's loss has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who loved them.'
