A 35-year-old British father, Keiren Bell, has died in France following a ruptured abdominal aneurysm while on a fishing trip with his young son. The family is now raising funds to repatriate his body to the UK, as he did not have travel insurance.
Bell, from Leeds, was on a last-minute getaway with his eight-year-old son, also named Keiren, on August 2, 2026, when the medical emergency occurred. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, he could not be saved.
Family members described Bell as a devoted family man and a caring individual who would do anything for his loved ones. He was a father to 13-year-old Kaitlyn and eight-year-old Keiren, a son to Janine, a brother to Konnor, and a partner to Lisa.
His sudden passing has left his family and friends devastated. His partner, Lisa Gale, expressed her gratitude for the messages of support she has received, stating she is overwhelmed and unable to speak to many people at this time. She thanked those who have donated to help bring Bell home.
The family is currently in France, grappling with their grief and the logistical and financial challenges of arranging for Bell's return to the UK. A GoFundMe page has been established by family member Beth Lynch to cover the costs of repatriation.
"His family are currently in France, trying to navigate the unimaginable heartbreak of losing Keiren while also facing the overwhelming practical and emotional challenges that come with such a tragic loss so far from home," Lynch stated in the appeal. "Their only wish is to bring him back to the UK, where he belongs, so he can be surrounded by those who love him and laid to rest with the dignity he deserves."
Lynch explained that the unexpected expenses associated with bringing Bell home, due to the lack of travel insurance, have necessitated the appeal for public assistance. "Every donation will go directly towards the cost of repatriating Keiren to the UK, allowing his family to focus on one another and saying goodbye to him, rather than the overwhelming financial pressures they now face," she added.
As of the time of writing, the GoFundMe campaign has raised over £26,500 towards its £30,000 goal. The family has indicated that any surplus funds will be used to support Bell's two children, ensuring they have future opportunities.
