A fundraising campaign for the family of a British teenager who died after a tour boat exploded in the Dominican Republic has surpassed £20,000 in just two days. The money will support the loved ones of 16-year-old Abbie Lainton, who suffered severe burns in the incident and passed away in hospital three days later.
What happened on the catamaran
Abbie, from Swindon, was on holiday with her family when the catamaran they were travelling on caught fire off Soana Island on July 27. The blast injured more than 20 tourists, including Abbie's younger brother and sister, who were also badly hurt. The teenager was airlifted to a medical facility but succumbed to her injuries on July 30.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office confirmed it is providing consular support to Abbie's family and assisting other British nationals affected by the tragedy. A spokesperson said the office remains in contact with local authorities as investigations continue.
Tributes pour in for 'forever 16' Abbie
The GoFundMe page, organised by Becky Jameson, describes Abbie as a vibrant young woman with her whole life ahead of her. It reads: 'On July 30, 2026, Abbie Lainton tragically lost her life in a terrible accident while on holiday in the Dominican Republic. Becky and Gary have lost their beautiful 16-year-old daughter, and Carley and Bradley were also badly injured in the accident. Abbie had her whole life ahead of her. She should have been enjoying the summer with her friends and looking forward to receiving her GCSE results. She was so loved by her family, friends and everyone who knew her. This page has been set up to support the family through this unimaginable time. For Abbie. Forever 16, forever loved and never forgotten.'
Neighbours in Swindon expressed their shock, with one saying: 'It's unbelievable. We heard about it from a friend of a friend. It's extremely, extremely upsetting. They've not been out the house much. We were just aware that something wasn't right. They're a nice family, very nice family.'
Dance and cheerleading community mourns
Abbie was a former pupil at Tanwood School for Performing Arts, where she trained in dance from a young age. The school posted a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, recalling her as a 'dinky dot' who grew into an exceptional performer. 'Abbie joined Tanwood as a dinky dot and was part of an exceptional group of dancers who formed strong friendships which spilled over to the audience when they performed together. She always performed with a huge smile, and those beautiful feet! Abbie took her dance training and joined Swindon Lightning Cheerleading Club where she once again excelled and competed all over the world. Abbie's family have been part of the Tanwood family for years, and have always offered unwavering support. We are all in complete shock at this heartbreaking news and send so much love and support to her family and friends at this unimaginable time. You will always be in our hearts.'
Swindon Lightning Cheerleading Club, where Abbie coached athletes, also paid tribute on Instagram: 'There are simply no words that feel enough. Abbie was a much-loved member of our Swindon Lightning family. Her kindness, infectious smile, unwavering encouragement and love for cheerleading touched the lives of so many athletes, coaches and families over the years. She brought so much light to our gym, and her loss has left us all heartbroken.'
Cheerleading star adds voice
Dillon Brandt, a cheerleading champion and star of Netflix's 'Cheer', also honoured Abbie on Instagram: 'Abbie was an amazing athlete and coach, a part of Swindon Lightning. This beautiful and talented person has passed away, the dedication to be a dedicated and loving person in the world did not go unnoticed. Please take the time to pray for her family, friends, and Swindon Lightning family during this time.'
The incident has cast a shadow over the close-knit cheerleading and performing arts communities, with many sharing memories of Abbie's infectious energy. As the fundraising total continues to climb, the family has asked for privacy while they come to terms with their loss.
