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After Walsall Canal Drowning, Family Urges Barriers as Trust Launches Inquiry

Walsall Council says fencing the basin is complex due to access needs.

Overview

  • Jody Brown died after falling into the Walsall canal at the Wolverhampton Street basin on May 3.
  • West Midlands Police say the death is not suspicious and have referred the case to the coroner.
  • The Canal & River Trust has begun an internal enquiry and says it will support the coroner’s investigation.
  • Her brother has launched a petition for safety barriers, citing CCTV that showed her walking along the canal edge and saying she could not swim.
  • The council notes that keeping access for boats and rescues limits continuous fencing and points to throw lines, clearer signs and water‑safety events already in place.