Emergency services were called to the park shortly after 3pm on Friday, April 4, following reports that a boy had gone missing in the water.
Specialist dive teams from the Met Police attended the scene, along with the London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade.
A boy was recovered from the lake at 10.42pm and taken to hospital, where he was sadly pronounced dead.
On Saturday, April 5, SEDA Football Academy named the victim as Izaiah Smith, a much-loved under-16s player.
In a tribute shared on Instagram, the club said it is “mourning the loss” of a bright and talented young man.
“Izaiah was such a bright light within our programme,” the post said.
“Always present at training, he greeted everyone with the most adorable smile. His huge character and infectious energy will be deeply missed by us all.”
@user182377210 LLIS ❤️🕊️ forever 15 Words cant explain how much pain im in all iver an accident that shouldnt have happened , you wasnt just my best friend but you was family , a brother and its hurts not to text or see you anymore bro . Fly high ik your watching down on us ❤️
@h7xry Missing you #bro 💔😔#LLIS🕊️💔 #Gonetosoon #foreveryoung🕊️💔 #LLIS ♬ Violent Crimes by Ye – theyeezusvision
The club described Izaiah as a “truly respectful young man” who showed constant kindness and consideration to coaches and staff.
It continued: “We all had so much time for Izaiah. He touched so many lives within our academy family.
“Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We hope they are able to grieve in the way that brings them some comfort.
“The players and coaching staff at SEDA Academy will forever cherish the memories we shared with Izaiah. We hope our dear Izaiah rests peacefully. You will always be in our hearts.”
Dozens of people have also paid tribute on TikTok, with many calling Izaiah’s heart “so pure” and sharing how “heartbroken” they are by the news.
A spokesperson for Lewisham Council confirmed the lake was closed on Saturday.
While the wider park has reopened, the lake remains shut with security in place until further notice.
The Metropolitan Police said the boy’s death is being treated as “unexpected” but not suspicious.
A spokesperson for Lewisham Council said: “Very sadly, police have now confirmed that a 15-year-old boy lost his life at the lake at Beckenham Place Park yesterday.
“We send our thoughts and deepest condolences to his family and friends.
“We are working closely with the police in order that their investigation establishes the full facts of what’s happened.
“If you have been affected by this tragic incident, there is support available.
“ChildLine provides a confidential telephone and online counselling service for anyone under 19. You can call 0800 1111 any time for free – lines are open 24 hours a day.
“The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0845 790 9090.”
A Met Police spokesperson said: “Met Police has suspended a search for a 16-year-old boy at Beckenham Place Park, following the discovery of a body.
“Officers were called to the park shortly after 15:00hrs on Friday, 4 April following reports of a boy going missing after getting into difficulty in the water.
“Specialist diving teams were in attendance alongside the London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade.
“A boy was recovered from the lake at around 22:42hrs on Friday, 4 April. He was taken to hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead.
“His death is being treated as unexpected but not believed to be suspicious.”
