Promising young footballer, Cameron Walsh, and father tragically die in devastating accident

10/01/2024

A promising young English footballer [1] and his dad have both died after their car crashed into a canal.

Cameron Walsh, 16, was an exciting youth team player for Grimsby Town in English football’s fourth-tier competition.

Cameron and his father, Dave, were both pronounced dead at the scene after the car they were travelling in left the road and became submerged in water at Tetney Lock in Lincolnshire, east England.

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Grimsby Town released a statement following the tragic fatalities.

“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, January 6,” the club said in a statement.

“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 teammates, 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.”

Dave and Cameron Walsh. Credit: GoFundMe

Grimsby Town, which plays in English football’s fourth tier, will pay tribute to the father-son pair at their next game on Saturday with a minute’s applause shortly before kick-off.

Cameron will also feature on the front cover of the matchday record.

Amateur football club Cleethorpes Town, where Cameron and Dave both played, also paid tribute to them.

“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,” the club said in a statement.

“Cameron was a super talented young player who began his career at the Owls before going on to establish himself at Grimsby Town’s academy and 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.”

Police are on the lookout for more information from the incident.

“We are now appealing for anyone who may have information to come forward,” a police statement said.

“At this stage it is not believed there were any other vehicles involved but we are keeping an open mind as the investigation progresses.”

Local ambulance and fire and rescue crews also attended the scene, police said.

A GoFundMe [3] page has been set up for the Walsh family to help them get through the ensuing weeks without financial stress.

“Two dear friends were taken from us in tragic circumstances, which has left a huge hole for many of us — not least his family,” fundraising organiser John-Patrick Gaughan wrote.

“We cannot do much to help Dave and Cameron’s family at this time other than to show that we are there for them.”

– With CNN