York River Tragedy

YORK, ENGLAND: An inquest into the death of a 19-year-old University of York student has heard that he remained afloat in the River Ouse for around 20 minutes, repeatedly calling for help before he disappeared beneath the water.

The case has raised questions about emergency response times and water rescue procedures in the city.

Student Entered River During Night Out

According to evidence presented at the North Yorkshire Coroner’s Court, Evan d’Andilly entered the River Ouse at approximately 3:03 a.m. on March 5, 2025, while spending time with friends in York.

A witness told the court that the group had been walking after drinking together when Evan suddenly went into the river.

The friend said there had been no warning that he intended to enter the water.

Rescue Efforts Began Immediately

Police officers arrived at the scene within minutes after receiving the emergency call. Court proceedings heard that an officer attempted to throw a life ring to Evan, but the rescue attempt was unsuccessful.

Surveillance footage shown during the inquest reportedly captured Evan calling for help while officers on the riverbank reassured him that rescue teams were on the way.

Despite remaining on the surface for approximately 20 minutes, he disappeared beneath the water shortly before a volunteer rescue boat reached the scene.

Questions Raised Over Rescue Response

Evidence presented during the hearing showed:

• Police arrived within minutes of the emergency call.
• The volunteer York Rescue Boat was alerted shortly after the incident.
• The rescue boat arrived around 3:22 a.m.
• Evan disappeared beneath the water at approximately 3:23 a.m.
• A fire service rescue vessel arrived later because it was stationed outside York.

Police body camera footage reportedly captured officers questioning why rescue resources had taken so long to arrive.

Family Calls for Review

During the inquest, Evan’s mother questioned whether emergency procedures should be reviewed, expressing concern over how rescue resources were deployed.

She described her son as someone who fought to survive and urged authorities to examine existing water rescue protocols.

His father also paid tribute, describing Evan as someone who was “full of life” and deeply loved by family and friends.

Emergency Services Respond

Following the inquest, both York Rescue Boat and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service extended condolences to Evan’s family.

Emergency services said they remain committed to reviewing the incident, working with partner agencies, and strengthening water safety measures to reduce future risks.

York River Tragedy

Inquest Findings

The inquest examined the sequence of events surrounding the rescue operation and heard evidence from police officers, emergency responders, witnesses, and family members.

Authorities said the findings would be carefully reviewed to identify any lessons that could improve future emergency responses.