At a Glance
- Connor Calleja, 20, was found dead in Lincoln’s Foss Bank water two days after vanishing from the University of Lincoln campus
- Family says he had “big dreams” of designing his own house and launching an architecture firm
- University calls him “a much-loved member of our community” in Facebook tribute
- Why it matters: The loss highlights the fragility of young lives and the depth of grief felt by families and university communities when a student dies
A University of Lincoln student whose body was recovered from a city waterway after a two-day search is being remembered by relatives as an “incredibly kind and loyal person” who spoke to his family every day while away at college.
Connor Calleja, 20, disappeared in the early hours of January 11 after being denied entry to a nightclub and attempting to walk back to his residence, relatives told local outlets. His stepfather, John Lewis, said the architecture major was last seen on campus at 2:09 a.m.
Discovery and Police Statement
Lincolnshire Police announced on January 13 that Connor’s body had been located during a search of the Foss Bank channel near Brayford Pool. Officers said they do not consider the death suspicious.
In a statement released through the force, Connor’s family described the Market Harborough native as someone who “didn’t do half measures” and was committed to every goal he set.
Family Tribute
“He was hardworking and determined, always achieving great grades throughout school and university,” relatives wrote. They recalled nightly calls home and said Connor had “always dreamed” of becoming an architect.
Other memories shared by loved ones:
- A “massive” Chelsea F.C. fan who analyzed matches “as if he were on the pitch himself”
- Self-taught guitarist and piano player who loved music
- Proud of learning to batch-cook meals, joking about eating “straight from the saucepan”
- Excited to return after Christmas for a friend’s birthday night out
“Whatever Connor did in life, he did to the best of his ability,” the family said, adding that he planned to design his own house and start a company.
University Response
The University of Lincoln posted a Facebook tribute on January 13, calling Connor “a much-loved member of our community” and asking students and staff to “take care of yourselves and each other.”
Final Family Words
Relatives ended their statement by saying Connor “was everything to us – our baby and our world.”
“Losing him has left us completely lost, but we take comfort in knowing he was happy and loved by all those around him. He gave us so much joy. We are so incredibly proud of him, and that will stay with us forever.”
