The communities of Wisbech and Sutton Bridge are in mourning following a tragic collision that left a 16-year-old girl dead and an 18-year-old man missing after their car plunged into the River Nene.
Eden Bunn, 16, from Sutton Bridge, was confirmed dead after the blue VW Polo she was travelling in entered the river at North Brink on Tuesday evening (March 17). Declan Berry, 18, from Wisbech, who is believed to have been driving the vehicle, remains missing as specialist dive teams continue their search.
Eden’s family expressed their heartbreak in a tribute:
“Eden was the kindest, most loving girl we could ever wish for. Her horses – Daisy and Dolly – were her world, and she was ours. Words cannot describe the tragedy that will stay with us until we are able to meet her again.”
Declan’s family and friends also shared their devastation:
“We are absolutely devastated beyond words and ask for privacy during this tragic time.”
Three other occupants – two girls aged 16 and an 18-year-old boy – managed to escape the vehicle and were taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn with non-life-threatening injuries. One girl remains in hospital while the others have been discharged.
DI Craig Wheeler of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said:
“This is a truly devastating collision, for all involved. My thoughts are with the friends and family of Eden and Declan during this truly horrific time. Our focus remains on trying to find Declan, however due to the challenging nature of the river, this could be a timely process.”
Authorities are appealing for anyone who saw the vehicle in the Wisbech area between 7pm and 8.20pm on March 17, or has dashcam footage, to contact police quoting incident 515 of March 17.
Those without internet access should call 101.
North Brink remains closed between Bevis Lane and Barton Road while search operations continue.
In a message of support, Wisbech St Mary Church announced:
“Our church will be open from 4pm to 6pm on Thursday 19th and Friday 20th March for anyone who may need support following the tragic accident involving a group of young people whose car entered the river. Our thoughts are with them, and with their families and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
