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Falcon College pupil drowns while canoeing
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A 13-year-old learner at Falcon College has died after a canoe he was using capsised at a dam within the school premises.
Chiratidzo Dube confirmed the incident, which occurred on March 22, 2026, at Quiet Waters Dam.
The learner, Jared Boka, had reportedly gone fishing at the dam with a 12-year-old friend before the pair decided to take a canoe onto the water.
"On 22 March 2026, Jared Boka, who was in the company of his 12-year-old friend, went fishing at Quiet Waters Dam within the school premises. Whilst at the dam, Jared and his friend took a canoe and went into the dam. The canoe capsised and Jared drowned. His friend managed to swim to the shore and alerted authorities," said Inspector Dube.
Police attended the scene following a report, and the body was later retrieved and taken to Esigodini District Hospital mortuary. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Authorities have since urged the public to exercise extreme caution around water bodies, particularly during the rainy season when dams are full and conditions are more hazardous. Inspector Dube also appealed to parents and guardians to closely supervise children and discourage them from venturing near water bodies without adult supervision.
In a statement, Falcon College expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
"The headmaster, board of governors, staff, students, and the wider Falcon College family extend our heartfelt condolences to the Boka family on the tragic loss of Jared (Form One). May his memory be a source of comfort and strength during this incredibly difficult time. May he rest in peace," read the statement.
Chiratidzo Dube confirmed the incident, which occurred on March 22, 2026, at Quiet Waters Dam.
The learner, Jared Boka, had reportedly gone fishing at the dam with a 12-year-old friend before the pair decided to take a canoe onto the water.
"On 22 March 2026, Jared Boka, who was in the company of his 12-year-old friend, went fishing at Quiet Waters Dam within the school premises. Whilst at the dam, Jared and his friend took a canoe and went into the dam. The canoe capsised and Jared drowned. His friend managed to swim to the shore and alerted authorities," said Inspector Dube.
Police attended the scene following a report, and the body was later retrieved and taken to Esigodini District Hospital mortuary. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Authorities have since urged the public to exercise extreme caution around water bodies, particularly during the rainy season when dams are full and conditions are more hazardous. Inspector Dube also appealed to parents and guardians to closely supervise children and discourage them from venturing near water bodies without adult supervision.
In a statement, Falcon College expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
"The headmaster, board of governors, staff, students, and the wider Falcon College family extend our heartfelt condolences to the Boka family on the tragic loss of Jared (Form One). May his memory be a source of comfort and strength during this incredibly difficult time. May he rest in peace," read the statement.
Source - The Chronicle
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