The community is in mourning tonight after the body of a five-year-old boy was recovered from the River Thames, bringing a desperate search to a tragic conclusion.
The child, described by heartbroken relatives as a 'fun-loving' little boy, had been reported missing from a family gathering. A massive multi-agency search operation was immediately launched, involving Metropolitan Police officers, the Marine Policing Unit, the National Police Air Service (NPAS), and the London Fire Brigade.
Despite their exhaustive efforts, the search ended in devastation. The young boy's body was discovered in the water near HMS Belfast, a landmark museum ship permanently moored on the Thames.
While formal identification is yet to take place, the boy's family has been informed of the devastating development. They are being supported by specially trained officers during this unimaginably difficult time.
A crime scene remains in place at the location where the boy was found as officers continue their investigation into the full circumstances surrounding this tragedy. The death is currently being treated as unexpected and is not believed to be suspicious.
This incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, serving as a stark and heartbreaking reminder of the dangers posed by open water, even in the heart of a major city.
