'Heartbroken' mum of teen who drowned in River Kelvin in Glasgow calls for more safety

The “heartbroken” mum of a teenager who drowned in the River Kelvin in Glasgow is calling for more safety measures.

Emergency crews and a police helicopter raced to the river near Maryhill Road on July 12 after receiving reports of a person in the water.

The body of 15-year-old Emilis Vanagas was recovered around five hours later.

Family and friends gathered the following week to pay tribute to the teenager by releasing balloons at the Stockingfield Bridge in Maryhill.

The body of 15-year-old Emilis Vanagas was recovered from the River Kelvin in July. Adobe Stock

Emilis’ mother, Daiva Stankeviciene, has now launched a petition calling for safety signs and barriers to be installed in the area known locally as the ‘Slushie’.

Situated near Kelvindale Road and the Kelvin Walkway, the path is frequented by joggers, cyclists, dog walkers, and families.

She wrote: “My son’s life was claimed by the river’s unpredictable currents, which could endanger others if swift measures are not taken. The safety of this community must be a priority.

“We propose the installation of warning signs, barriers, and safety equipment such as lifebuoys around the dangerous sections of the river.

“Creating an awareness campaign around water safety in Glasgow, particularly in schools and community centres, is crucial to educating our children, parents, and everyone who cherishes our natural surroundings.

“Additionally, collaborating with local authorities to conduct a thorough risk assessment and implement further safety interventions could significantly reduce the risk of such heart-wrenching incidents.

“Empowering our community with the knowledge and tools to respect natural bodies of water and walkways will protect lives.

“It’s time to turn tragedy into action and protect this cherished community space.”

Ema Kaftanikaitė, his aunt, said on Facebook in July: “Our family is heartbroken…We lost my beloved nephew Emilis far too soon – he was only 15 years old.

“His life was full of love, laughter, and dreams that will now remain unfulfilled. No parent should ever have to bury their child.

“We want to give him the farewell he deserves – with love, dignity, and peace. If you can, please consider donating to help with the funeral costs.

“Every little bit helps and means more than words can say. Rest in peace, sweet Emilis – we will never forget you. Forever 15.”

Patrycja Majewska, the youngster’s aunt, who set up a GoFundMe, said: “Emilis had just celebrated his 15th birthday on June 13 and had his whole life ahead of him.

“His parents got tragic news on Saturday, July 12, that they found Emilis in one of the rivers close to the house, and unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

“He lost his life but saved two other lives and will always be remembered as a hero. Parents are devastated after this tragic loss.”

G20 Youth Project, a trauma-responsive youth and community project for 10-25-year-olds, also paid tribute and said it was mourning the loss.

They posted on Facebook: “Our community is mourning the loss of a 15-year-old boy whose life was taken far too soon. As you can imagine, no family is ever prepared for something like this.

“There is a GoFundMe page to help his family cover the funeral and memorial costs, so they can focus on grieving and honouring his memory without the added weight of financial stress.

“If you are able to donate, even a small amount, it would mean so much. And if you can’t give right now, please consider sharing this post to help spread the word.”

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “Around 6.40pm on Saturday, July 12, 2025, a search and rescue operation was launched following a report of a 15-year-old male in the River Kelvin, near Maryhill Road, Glasgow.

“Emergency services attended and around 11.30pm the body of a male was recovered from the water.”

You can view the petition here.