Grimsby Town star, 16, dies alongside dad after car plunges into canal as tributes paid to ‘brightest stars in the sky’
A 16-YEAR-OLD Grimsby Town star has died alongside his dad in a horror crash after their car plunged into a canal – with tributes paid to the “brightest stars in the sky”.
Cameron Walsh and his dad Dave died after their blue Mercedes 300 left the road in Tetney Lock, Lincolnshire at 1.30pm on Saturday.
Cops, paramedics and a fire crew scrambled to the canal, with a 16-year-old boy and 40-year-old man pronounced dead at the scene.
They have now been named as Grimsby Town youth player Cameron and his dad Dave.
Their next of kin have been informed and a GoFundMe page has already raised more than £12,000 for the devastated family.
Yesterday evening Grimsby Town said: “It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that Grimsby Town Football Club announces the untimely passing of one of our cherished youth team members, Cameron Walsh, aged 16, and his father Dave.
“The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, 6th January.
“Cameron Walsh was an integral part of the GTFC academy. His passion for the game, coupled with his undeniable talent, made him a much-loved figure among team-mates, coaches, and the entire Grimsby Town family.
“The Club is devastated by this heartbreaking loss and extends its deepest condolences to the family during this incredibly difficult time.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate through the pain and grief that comes with such a tragedy.
“The Club appreciates the outpouring of support from the football community and urges everyone to remember Cameron and Dave.
“We will pay tribute to Cameron and Dave at our game vs Notts County on Saturday.
“We understand that a GoFundMe page has been set up to support the family and we will communicate details of this, once confirmed.”
Friends paid tribute to the teen on social media along with devastated Grimsby fans.
One said: “Cam, you weren’t just a mate or a best mate, you were pretty much my brother.
“You are truly the best lad I have ever met and ever will meet, I love you for that.
“I just want to remind you that you won’t ever be forgotten.
“We will carry you in our hearts and minds forever, this goes the same for Dave.”
Another said: “Goodbye my friend. You were very genuine and respectful towards not only me but my mum also.
“You will be missed by many Cam. Forever in our hearts, love always. Rest in paradise.”
A third said: “Rest in peace Cam, sending love to family and friends.”
A fourth said: “The whole family are the kindest you will find.
“I’m heartbroken for them and every other person who was lucky enough to know them – many many many beautiful memories.
“Shine bright lads you will always hold a special place in so many hearts.”
CANAL TRAGEDY
Cops do not believe that any other vehicles were involved after finding the car submerged in water.
Diversions were put in place around the Tetney Lock Road junction before it re-opened at 3am on Sunday.
Officers are now urging anyone who saw the Mercedes or who dashcam footage from between 12.30pm and 1.33pm on Saturday to come forward.
If you have information, call 01522 212316 and quote incident 190 of January 6, or email jared.thorp@lincs.police.uk.
Cameron went to Tollbar School and was a member of coach Neil Woods’ Under-18s team who are top of the EFL Youth Alliance North-East Division.
The club described him as a “left-sided centre-back with good height who could also play left back too”.
‘SUPER TALENTED’
Grimsby tweeted the news at 6.45pm on Monday, prompting floods of messages of support from the football community.
A Mariners supporters’ group added: “Thoughts are with their family and friends at such an incredibly sad time. Both with be remembered fondly by many in the Town.”
Cleethorpes FC said: “The club learned of the tragic news over the weekend of the passing of Ex player, Junior manager and wonderful person Dave Walsh along with his son, the very talented and popular Cameron Walsh.
“Needless to say our thoughts and prayers go out to Kerry, Millie, Connor and the family at this truly awful time.
“Dave was a popular footballer in the area, having played for the Owls at the beginning of our journey and then taking on the management of his son Cameron’s side having many many happy times.
“Cameron was a super talented young player who began his career at the Owls before going onto to establish himself at Grimsby Town’s academy.
“He most recently played in the FA Cup Youth Cup win over Nottingham Forest.
“Cameron was also our lead mascot on that famous day at Wembley leading the side out – forever a huge part of our history.
“We will be honouring them both within the ground when the time is right.”
Burton Albion said: “Absolutely devastating. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cameron’s family, loved ones and everyone connected with the club.”
West Brom, Lincoln City and Harrogate Town were among the other clubs to tweet their condolences.