A SCHOOLBOY has died after jumping in a fast-flowing river to try and save his friend, his heartbroken mum has said.
Aras Rudzianskas, 13, and David Radut, 14, both from Newcastle, died last year after being dragged by the current in the River Tyne, Northumberland.
Egle Rudzianskas has paid an emotional tribute to her son[/caption]
On the first anniversary of his tragic death, Aras’s mum Egle Rudzianskas has paid an emotional tribute to her “a beautiful-natured boy”.
She told Chronicle Live: “He was never fighting, never doing anything wrong.
“He would help me to translate things. He was my angel, he was my best friend, he was my everything.
“I feel the same today as what I felt a year ago.
“For me, it’s like there’s something inside of me that has been taken out. I can’t explain. I still don’t understand what’s happened.”
But despite being “so proud” of her heroic son for jumping into the river and trying to save his friend, she said she still feels “angry”.
“I’m in shock and I’m angry about that day because I lost a son at that place. I can’t believe children go there. The river is very dangerous,” she added.
It is believed the boys were part of a bigger group who had travelled from the west end of Newcastle to the river on May 18 last year.
The body of David was found in the river following a frantic search.
He was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Aras was rescued from the water and was taken to hospital where he also sadly died.
Chief Superintendent Sam Rennison, of Northumbria Police, at the time said: “Our sincerest sympathies go to the loved ones of both boys and we will continue to provide whatever support we can at this devastating time.
“Since Saturday, our thoughts and those of the wider community have been with the families and friends of those affected.
“We would ask that the public continue to respect the privacy of the families both online and in the community.”
Fire crews removed the swing next to where the two boys entered the water.
Tributes poured in for the boys in the wake of the tragedy.
One pal wrote on Facebook: “Rest easy David Radut until we meet again and when we do don’t take my shoes off me and call me little legs, haha forever a big miss.”
Another said: “Rest in peace David Radut you never failed to make me laugh – one of the nicest boys I know.
“I’ll miss you ringing at stupid o’clock in the morning asking me to come live on Insta with you and winding me up 24/7.
“Hope heaven treats you well – rest easy our boy.”
