A tragic accident occurred on 17 March, when a car plunged into the River Nene in Wisbech St. Mary, resulting in the death of a 16-year-old girl and sparking a search for another teenager who is presumed to be missing. The victim has been identified as Eden Bunn, a resident of Sutton Bridge, with her family describing her as “the kindest, most loving girl we could ever wish for.”
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The incident took place shortly after 8:20 p.m. when a blue Volkswagen Polo carrying five teenagers veered off North Brink Road and fell into the river. While two of the girls and an 18-year-old boy managed to escape with non-life-threatening injuries, Eden’s body was later retrieved from the water.
Eden’s family, which includes her parents, Lisa and Dean, as well as her siblings Jay and Shelby, expressed their devastation in a statement issued by Cambridgeshire Police. They shared their profound grief and remembered her as someone whose passion for her horses, Daisy and Dolly, exemplified her caring nature. “Words cannot describe the tragedy that will stay with us until we are able to meet her again,” they remarked.
In a related development, authorities continue to search for 18-year-old Declan Berry from Wisbech, who is believed to have been behind the wheel at the time of the crash. A statement from his family expressed their heartbreak over the incident, requesting privacy as they cope with the situation.
Detective Investigator Craig Wheeler from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit stated that the search for Declan is ongoing, highlighting the difficulties posed by the challenging conditions of the river. “There will be an increased police presence along the River Nene while we continue our efforts to find him,” he confirmed, expressing solidarity with the families of both Eden and Declan during this traumatic period.
The three survivors of the crash were promptly taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn. While two of them have since been discharged, one girl remains hospitalised as a precautionary measure.
Wheeler described the collision as “truly devastating” for all those involved. The local community has responded with an outpouring of support for the families, as they navigate the painful aftermath of this incident.
The police are appealing for any witnesses or individuals with information about the crash to come forward. Those who wish to report details can do so through the official police website, referencing incident number 515 of 17 March, or by calling 101 if they do not have internet access.
This incident has left many in the community in shock, and the ongoing search for Declan, along with the heartfelt tributes to Eden, is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of unforeseen tragedies. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision is expected to provide more clarity in the coming days, as officials strive to support the grieving families affected by this heartbreaking event.