Overview
- An inquest on February 20 ruled that William Webb, 21, died by accidental drowning in the Shropshire Union Canal.
- CCTV showed Webb walking beside the canal around 4:25–4:30am before likely falling in, and the coroner said his attempts to self-rescue were unsuccessful.
- The coroner’s report highlights missing life-saving equipment, difficult egress from the water, and a lack of warning signs near student accommodation.
- The Prevention of Future Deaths report requires the Canal & River Trust to detail actions and a timetable within 56 days.
- The trust said it will consider the findings and respond, stating that water safety remains a priority.