Life-Saving River Safety Equipment Targeted by Vandals Just Weeks After Installation in Memory of Tragic Drowning Victim

Peterborough, UK — Vital life-saving public safety equipment installed on the River Nene in memory of a young father who tragically drowned last year was nearly lost due to a senseless act of vandalism — just one month after it was installed.

Lifebuoy Dumped In The River Nene Peterborough

Two lifebuoy rings and an emergency bleed control kit were installed near the river with funds gratefully raised by Catch a Thief UK in partnership with the family of Damian McNutt, affectionately known as “Damo”, who drowned after entering the River Nene on the night of 24/25 May 2024. He was just 31 years old and leaves behind three young children.

To mark the first anniversary of Damian’s untimely death, the community came together to raise over £1,200, which funded the installation of two lifebuoys and an emergency bleed control kit at the site. The equipment was installed in May 2025 to help prevent further loss of life at a location where multiple fatalities have tragically occurred.

But just weeks later, both life rings were removed from their holders and thrown into the river, rendering them unavailable in the event of another emergency.

The rings remained missing for over two weeks until Damian’s brother, Conor McNutt, discovered them further downstream and risked his own safety to retrieve and return them. They have since been securely fastened to their holders.

Video of lost Lifebuoy: Conor McNutt

Conor had recently also prevented a possible suicide at the same location, when he noticed a woman in distress on the bridge, legs dangling over the edge. Acting quickly, he pulled her to safety and stayed with her until emergency services arrived.

Speaking on the incident, Damian’s mother Sharon McNutt said:

“If lifebuoys had been there when Damo went into the river, he might still be here. This equipment was installed for everyone’s safety. Whoever did this needs to stop and think — one day they might need help themselves. Thankfully, the emergency bleed control kit was left untouched.”

Empty Lifebuoy holder river Nene Peterborough

Simon Evans, spokesperson for Catch a Thief UK, condemned the vandalism, stating:

“This is a disgraceful act of mindless behaviour that could have cost someone their life. The equipment was installed specifically to help make that part of the river safer. We are extremely thankful for the return of the life rings, and we are continuing to investigate the incident. Catch a Thief UK will not tolerate theft or damage to any of our safety equipment and will take all necessary legal and criminal action to hold the perpetrators accountable.”

The community and Damian’s family have vowed to continue raising awareness around water safety, mental health, and public responsibility.

If you have any information regarding this incident you can contact Catch a Thief UK directly, via any of our points of contact quoting reference number: LB2425D

Catch a Thief UK Community and Retail Crime Prevention and Safety First