An inquest has been opened into the death of a three-year-old British girl who lost her life after a swimming pool incident while on a family holiday in Mallorca, Spain.
Eleri Ellesmere, from New Tredegar in Gwent, was staying with her parents, Joe and Cerys Ellesmere, at Villa Francisca, a rural property near Pollenca, when the tragedy occurred on the evening of June 24.
The hearing at Gwent Coroner’s Court was told that the child was later pronounced dead despite extensive medical intervention.
Emergency Response Failed to Save Child
According to details presented during the inquest, Eleri was discovered unresponsive in the villa’s swimming pool.
Relatives immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before emergency services transported her to Son Espases Hospital in Palma.
Medical teams continued efforts to save the young girl after her arrival at the hospital. Despite intensive treatment, she died the following day.
Her family later acknowledged the dedication of healthcare professionals, saying medical staff fought tirelessly to save her life.
Preliminary Cause of Death Confirmed
Senior Coroner Rose Farmer formally opened the inquest before adjourning proceedings until April 13, 2027, to allow for further investigations.
The court heard that the provisional medical cause of death was recorded as mechanical asphyxiation by drowning, leading to respiratory failure.
Parents Describe an Unimaginable Loss
In a heartfelt statement, Eleri’s mother, Cerys, described how what had begun as a joyful family getaway quickly became an unimaginable tragedy.
She said the holiday had been expected to create cherished family memories but instead became “every parent’s worst nightmare.”
Cerys explained that despite determined efforts by both the family and medical teams in Palma, Eleri remained on life-support treatment before eventually succumbing to her injuries.
She also recalled that she and her husband stayed beside their daughter throughout her final hours, praising the little girl’s determination as she fought to survive.
The family said Eleri’s heart finally stopped beating at 1:40 p.m. CEST on June 25, leaving them devastated and struggling to comprehend their loss.
Community Launches Fundraiser to Support Family
Following the tragedy, relatives and supporters established an online fundraising campaign to help cover funeral expenses and ease the financial burden facing Eleri’s parents.
The appeal describes Eleri as a deeply loved child whose death has left an immeasurable void in the lives of her family.
Organisers said they hope to provide practical and emotional support during an exceptionally painful period.
Money raised will contribute toward arranging a funeral that honours Eleri’s memory with dignity, love and respect while allowing her parents the time and space to grieve without the added pressure of funeral costs.
Investigation to Continue
The circumstances surrounding Eleri’s death remain under official investigation as the inquest has been postponed until next year.
Further evidence is expected to be reviewed before the coroner reaches a final conclusion regarding the events leading to the tragic incident.
