A WREXHAM teenager has died after a tunnel dug in sand dunes collapsed on him.
Craig Owen, 16, of Coed-y-Felin in Brymbo, was killed while holidaying with his family and friends in West Wales.
Emergency services were called to Cefn Sidan beach at Pembrey near Llanelli at 7pm on Sunday following reports a young male had become trapped in the sand dunes.
A Dyfed-Powys Police spokeswoman said he was airlifted by Air Ambulance to Morriston Hospital in Swansea, but has since died.
Burry Port Coastguard Rescue Team, police officers and three fire engines, including one carrying specialist equipment, also attended the incident to help.
Burry Port Coastguard were able to uncover the boy’s chest to allow paramedics to give him oxygen. However, it took another 15 to 20 minutes to uncover the rest of his body.
It is believed the teenager was playing with a group of up to 15 other youngsters in the dunes behind the beach when he got trapped.
He was dug out of the sand and paramedics from the air ambulance tried to resuscitate him.
The spokeswoman said the teenager’s parents had been told of his “tragic” death.
Flowers and tribute messages saying how much he will be missed now mark the scene of the tragedy.
Rob Ratcliffe, headteacher at Bryn Alyn School where Craig attended, said: “Craig Owen was an outstanding young man. He was bright, funny, considerate and had a wide circle of friends.
“Losing a student is the worst thing that could happen to a school community and everyone is stunned. His GCSE results are due out August 21 and we are expecting top grades in all subjects. It is a real tragedy.”
Emergency service personnel extended their sympathy to Craig’s family, but urged everybody to take extra care on beaches.
Dyfed-Powys Police are now investigating the incident.
An inquest was opened and adjourned on Monday by the Swansea coroner.
They appealed for witnesses to contact Llanelli Police Station on 0845 330 2000.
