A body has been found during the search for a 13-year-old boy who went missing at sea, police have confirmed. The youngster is believed to have encountered difficulties while in the water off the East Yorkshire coastline.
Search launched after incident on Tuesday
Humberside Police were alerted to concerns for the teenager's welfare near the South Promenade area of Hornsea at approximately 6pm on Tuesday. A large-scale search and rescue operation was immediately launched.
Officers have confirmed a body was retrieved from the water at around 4.30am today (August 5). While formal identification has yet to be completed, officers believe the body is that of the missing teenager.
Emergency services involved
The search involved the police’s Marine Unit and drone pilots, HM Coastguard, Yorkshire Ambulance Service, and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service. Footage and photographs taken at the scene show a lifeboat on the sea, and an HM Coastguard helicopter circling above.
Police statement
Chief Superintendent Phil Booker said: “This is an incredibly heartbreaking outcome, and our thoughts are with the boy’s family and friends at this devastating time.”
Mr Booker added: “His death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will now be prepared for the Coroner. We know the sadness and concern this will cause in the community, and we would ask that the family’s privacy is respected during this incredibly difficult time. I would like to thank all of the emergency services involved in the search, along with members of the public for their support and cooperation.”
