The body of a missing university student has been discovered in a Lincoln canal, days after he was turned away from a city centre nightclub. Lincolnshire Police confirmed the tragic find during a search for 20-year-old Connor Calleja, who vanished in the early hours of Sunday, 11 January 2026.
Search Ends in Tragedy
Connor Calleja, a student at the University of Lincoln, was last captured on CCTV walking alone along University Bridge. His stepfather, John Lewis, had earlier explained that Connor disappeared after being denied entry to the Home nightclub and attempting to walk back to his student accommodation.
On Monday, 13 January, police officers searching the Foss Bank area of water, near The Brayford, discovered the body of a man. A police spokesperson stated: "While formal identification has yet to take place, we believe this to be the body of 20-year-old Connor." The family has been informed and are receiving support from specialist officers.
The force emphasised that there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. They have asked the public and media to respect the family's privacy during this immensely difficult time.
A Family's Heartbreak
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Connor's stepdad, John Lewis, confirmed the devastating news. "It's with our deepest regret to have to inform everyone that Connor has died," he wrote. "No words can describe how upset, sad and devastating this is for us."
The close-knit university community has also been left reeling. The University of Lincoln issued an official statement expressing profound sorrow. "At this very difficult time, our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with all those affected by the loss of one of our students, Connor Calleja, especially family, friends, and those closest to him," a spokesperson said.
The university described Connor as a "much-loved member of our community" and acknowledged that many staff and students would be deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic event.
Community and Safety Reflections
This incident has cast a sombre shadow over the city of Lincoln and its large student population. It raises poignant questions about nighttime safety for young people walking near waterways after a night out. The police have thanked those who shared their initial appeal for information, which helped in the search efforts.
As the community mourns, the focus remains on supporting Connor's grieving family and friends. The university has urged its community to look after one another while processing this loss.
