17-07-2025
Tributes paid to teenager, 15, who died in Glasgow river
The 15-year-old, who has been named locally as Emilis Vanagas, is reported to have gotten into difficulty after entering the River Kelvin, near Maryhill Road, at around 6.40pm on Saturday, July 12.
A large-scale search operation was launched involving multiple emergency services.
However, at around 11.30pm the same day, police confirmed the body of a man was recovered from the water.
Emilis' family noted that the youngster had just celebrated his 15th birthday a month earlier.
Daiva Stankeviciene, Emilis' mum, said her 'heart is broken' following the devastating loss.
READ NEXT: Body recovered from Glasgow's River Kelvin after search
A post on Ms Stankeviciene's Facebook page reads: 'My heart is broken, my dear son. You will always be remembered, never forgotten.
'Forever 15. We miss you so much.'
Emilis' loved ones shared their condolences in the comments.
One person said: 'I will carry you in my heart forever. May your little soul rest in peace, surrounded by light and love.
'I love you so much.'
Another added: 'So sad to read this, my thoughts and prayers are with you Daiva and all of the family.'
A third commented: 'I'm in shock. I'm so gutted for you and your family. Sending the biggest hug to you.'
Police Scotland stated that the death is not being treated as suspicious, and enquiries are ongoing.
A spokesperson for the force 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.
'Enquiries are ongoing; however, the death is not being treated as suspicious."
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A GoFundMe page has been set up to support the family. It has so far raised more than £4800.
A statement published to the page reads: 'I am making this fundraising page for my sister-in-law as she's tragically lost her 15-year-old boy on July 12.
'Emilis had just celebrated his 15th birthday on June 13 and had his whole life ahead of him, but sadly, he lost his life just one month after his birthday.
'His parents tragically got the news on Saturday, July 12, that they found Emilis in one of the rivers close to the house.
'Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the scene, and he lost his life, but he saved two other lives. He will always be remembered as a hero.
'His parents are devastated after this tragic loss. I am making this fundraiser for the family to help them get through and with the costs of the funeral.
'We appreciate every donation, and even if you can't donate, please share the fundraiser.'
To view the GoFundMe page, visit HERE.
