A gut-wrenching inquest has uncovered the tragic death of nine-year-old Luiza “Bia” Paun, who drowned after slipping into the River Thames while playing on a jetty in Gravesend.
Girl Plunges Into River Thames at Gordon Promenade
On May 30 last year, Luiza, from Wrotham Road in Gravesend, was playing near the water at Gordon Promenade when she slipped off the jetty after taking off her shoes. Despite brave attempts from passers-by who dived in to save her, she was swept under by the strong current and vanished beneath the surface.
Massive Rescue Operation Launched but Ends in Tragedy
- Kent Police marine units, the coastguard helicopter, and RNLI lifeboats scrambled to search for Luiza and two other boys caught in the water.
- One boy, aged around seven, was rescued and hospitalised in stable condition.
- Heartbreakingly, Luiza’s body was recovered the following day near Newbridge Causeway behind the Gravesend Rowing Club — close to where she fell in.
Eyewitness George Karnovski spoke of his desperate rescue efforts. “While pulling the boy out, I was shouting ‘there is one more’ but I couldn’t find the little girl anywhere,” the 37-year-old said.
Community in Mourning as Calls for River Safety Grow
Floral tributes and soft toys cluttered the site after the tragedy, with heartfelt messages like “Rest in peace, little one” and “May you find eternal peace in the arms of angels.”
Luiza’s family, believed to be from Romania, described her as a “beautiful angel” whose life was tragically cut short. Gravesham MP Dr Lauren Sullivan expressed her sorrow and support for the family, praising emergency crews.
“There are many opinions about the circumstances, and it is right there is an investigation. But at the heart of this is a family and community in grief, which I hope everyone can respect,” said Dr Sullivan.
The inquest heard that Luiza was playing with her cousin at the riverside when she slipped and was pulled into the river by the current.
Local residents have urged authorities to boost riverbank safety, demanding clearer warning signs — including multilingual ones — to protect visitors from similar nightmares.
What Happens Next?
The full inquest into Luiza’s death is set for March 18 at Oakwood House, Maidstone.
Her heartbreaking story is a stark warning about hidden river dangers, especially to children. Gravesend and surrounding areas are now demanding tighter safety measures to stop any more devastating tragedies.
