Omanghana
The Ghana Police Service has commenced investigations into the tragic drowning of a 15-year-old girl, identified as Dadoe (also spelled Edoe) Dedzo, at the Dada Stream near Wovenu Senior High Technical School (WOSSET) in the Ketu North Municipality of the Volta Region.
The incident occurred on the afternoon of Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Tadzewu, leaving residents and the victim’s family devastated.
Victim Identified
The deceased, Dadoe Dedzo, was the daughter of the late Midaekpe. According to local reports, she was among three friends who had gone to the stream to swim before the unfortunate incident occurred.
The section of the stream where she reportedly jumped is believed to be about 12 feet deep, particularly near the entrance of a culvert, making rescue efforts extremely difficult.
How the Tragedy Happened
Reports from the Ghana News Agency (GNA) and local Unit Committee officials indicate that the incident unfolded after the three girls had spent time swimming at the stream.
After leaving the water, the group moved to a nearby drinking spot to relax. However, while seated there, Dedzo unexpectedly walked back toward the stream and jumped into a deep section.
Her friends initially believed she would resurface, but after several moments passed without seeing her, they became alarmed.
They attempted to rescue her by extending a long stick into the water for her to hold onto, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Rescue Efforts and Recovery
Following distress calls from residents, experienced local swimmers and police officers rushed to the scene to assist with the search.
After several minutes of searching, her body was retrieved from the stream and handed over to authorities.
The remains have since been deposited at the St. Anthony Hospital mortuary, where an autopsy is expected to be conducted as part of investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Police Begin Investigation
The Ghana Police Service has confirmed that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact events leading to the drowning.
Authorities noted that there were no independent eyewitnesses to the incident apart from Dedzo’s two friends who were with her at the time.
The police are expected to rely on statements from witnesses, forensic findings, and the autopsy report to determine what happened before the fatal jump.
Growing Concern Over Drowning Cases in Tadzewu
The incident has heightened concerns among residents, as it marks the second drowning recorded in the Tadzewu area within one week.
A 15-year-old boy recently lost his life in the nearby Agortor Stream, raising fears about the safety risks posed by local water bodies, especially during school vacation periods.
Community leaders and local authorities have since appealed to parents and guardians to increase supervision of children and discourage unsupervised swimming in deep streams and rivers.
The tragedies have renewed calls for greater public awareness, safety measures around dangerous water bodies, and closer monitoring of young people during holidays.
Source: Omanghana
