Man who died in rescue attempt gets King's award

A young man who died after he jumped into the Thames to save a woman has been awarded the King's Commendation for Bravery.

Folajimi Olubunmi-Adewole, known as Jimi, was on his way home from work at a central London restaurant in April 2021 when he heard a woman struggling in the water.

He and another would-be rescuer, Joaquim Garcia, went into the river near London Bridge at about midnight.

The woman and Garcia were saved by the coastguard and marine police but Olubunmi-Adewole, 20, could not be found. His body was recovered about six hours later.

Garcia, 26, has also been given the same bravery award and said it was an honour and "a reminder that what I did was something good."

"It brings me so much peace that I was told that without me helping her float and carrying her, she wouldn't have survived."

He added that finding out Olubunmi-Adewole had not survived was one of the worst moments of his life and he was pleased the younger man had been recognised posthumously.

"It can be one of the most traumatic things," he said, "but I think receiving this honour brings some level of peace and some level of recognition."

At an inquest the year after he died, an assistant coroner ruled Olubunmi-Adewole's death accidental, and praised his "courage and determination".

"The courage to jump to help a complete stranger in the Thames at night is quite astonishing.

"Many of us would like to think we would do the same in that situation, but few of us would have the courage and determination."

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy said: "These awards commend courage and bravery and in the stories of the individuals recognised today we see true selflessness.

"Folajimi and Joaquin risked their lives for strangers without hesitation.

"Their actions showcase the best of us. Their families and their country are deeply proud of them."

Olubunmi-Adewole's posthumous award will be presented to his next of kin.

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