Tragic River Crash in Wisbech Claims Life of Teen Eden Bunn; Searches Continue for Driver Declan Berry After Vehicle Recovered

Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, UK — A devastating single-vehicle collision on March 17, 2026, has left one teenage girl dead and an 18-year-old man missing after their car plunged into the River Nene. Eden Bunn, 16, from Sutton Bridge, was recovered from the water the following day, while searches persist for Declan Berry, 18, from Wisbech, who is believed to have been driving the blue Volkswagen Polo. The incident, which occurred around 8:20 p.m. at North Brink in Wisbech St Mary, involved five teenagers aged 16–18 and has deeply shaken the local community.

Cambridgeshire Police responded to reports of a car leaving the road and entering the River Nene. Three occupants — two 16-year-old girls and an 18-year-old boy — managed to escape the submerged vehicle and were taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn with non-life-threatening injuries. Specialist dive teams, supported by the Metropolitan Police, recovered the Volkswagen Polo on March 23, confirming no additional people inside. However, Declan Berry remains unaccounted for, with ongoing searches along the river described as challenging due to currents and conditions.

Det Insp Craig Wheeler from the Road Policing Unit stated: “We are still actively searching for Declan along the River Nene. We continue to support his family, who were present today when the vehicle was recovered. This is a truly devastating collision for all involved.”

Eden Bunn was described by her family as “the kindest girl,” full of life and loved by all who knew her. Tributes poured in, with friends and relatives highlighting her warmth and compassion. Declan’s family expressed profound devastation: “We are absolutely devastated beyond words and ask for privacy during this tragic time.” His brother paid an emotional tribute, noting Declan was “full of life and always joking,” with a great sense of humor and a passion for his car. He had recently passed his driving test and planned modifications to his VW Polo, while aspiring to join the Royal Engineers in the army after training in Birmingham.

Declan’s father, Alan Berry, laid flowers at the scene and spoke to ITV News Anglia about his son: “Declan was always a joker, pulling pranks… He did things in his own pace. He’d always be telling me ‘Dad, there’s no rush’.” The family plans a riverside memorial — a platform with seating — to remember both Declan and Eden.

Portraits of Eden Bunn (left) and Declan Berry (right), shared by Cambridgeshire Police and family. The teens were among five in the car; three escaped, one died, and Declan is missing.

The River Nene at North Brink is a rural stretch with narrow roads and water proximity, where accidents can escalate quickly. Police have not released a cause (e.g., loss of control, speed, or conditions), emphasizing support for families and survivors during this traumatic period. Det Ch Insp Garry Webb noted: “This is a terrible tragedy… We are supporting all the families and the young survivors through what is a traumatic time for them all.”

Community response has been overwhelming, with floral tributes accumulating at the site. Friends and locals describe the teens as typical young people enjoying time together, making the loss even more poignant. No updates suggest criminality or unusual behavior; the focus remains on recovery and closure.

This incident highlights road safety risks near water, especially for young drivers. Cambridgeshire Police urge caution on rural roads and remind of the dangers of water entry in vehicles. As searches continue, the community holds vigils and supports the grieving families.

Eden Bunn’s family and Declan’s have requested privacy amid their unimaginable pain. Donations or tributes can follow family channels if announced. The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of life’s fragility — cherish loved ones and drive safely.