The family of a 19-year-old student have paid a heartbreaking tribute to their ‘sunshine’ after he drowned in the River Ouse.
Evan d’Andilly, who was a student at the University of York, is thought to have entered the river from a bridge in the city centre at 3.06am last Wednesday.
Police divers recovered the body of the teenager, from Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, from the water at 11.45am the same day.
In a statement from his family, they paid tribute to a ‘gentle’ boy after ‘every family’s worst nightmare’.
They said: ‘Evan was, and always will be, our sunshine, our boy.
‘He was bright, funny, loving, kind, generous, laid back and had a smile that lit up a room. His soul was gentle. There are no words to express our sadness.
Evan d’Andilly, who was a student at the University of York, is thought to have entered the river from a bridge in the city centre at 3.06am last Wednesday
Police divers recovered the body of the teenager, from Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, from the water at 11.45am the same day. Pictured: The River Ouse running through York
‘We would like to thank everyone who has sent words of kindness and support and everyone who tried to help Evan.
‘This is every parent’s, every family’s, worst nightmare. We hope that his friends are getting all the support they need.’
North Yorkshire Police does not believe there were any suspicious circumstances circumstances surrounding his death.
They are appealing to witnesses with CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.
A report is being compiled on behalf of the coroner.
The University of York told MailOnline: ‘We are deeply shocked and saddened by the death of Evan and our thoughts are with his family and friends.
‘This is also very upsetting news for our community and we are providing support to staff and students affected by Evan’s tragic death.’
