A five-year-old child who went missing from the village of Badsey near Evesham has been found dead in water. West Mercia Police confirmed the discovery on Thursday, July 30, after searching for the youngster who vanished the previous evening.
The child was found unresponsive in a body of water within the Badsey locality and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police believe the death was the result of drowning, with no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner to open an inquest.
Tragic discovery
A police spokeswoman said: "Officers were called to a report of a missing child in Badsey yesterday evening (Wednesday 29 July). Sadly, the child was found unresponsive in a body of water, and a short time later was pronounced dead. There is no third-party involvement in the child's death, and a report will be prepared for the coroner. This is an incredibly tragic incident."
The police appealed for privacy, asking the public to avoid speculation online as it is distressing to the family.
Ambulance response
West Midlands Ambulance Service were called at 6.50pm and sent an ambulance, two paramedic officers and the Midlands Air Ambulance Critical Care Car. A spokesperson said: "On arrival we discovered one patient, a young child. Ambulance staff and police worked quickly to treat the patient, but sadly, it became apparent nothing could be done to save them and they were confirmed dead at the scene."
Water safety campaign
The Mirror has launched the Save Lives For Sam water safety campaign, backed by MPs, Olympic champions, national water safety organisations and bereaved families, calling for urgent action to reduce drowning. The campaign advocates for compulsory water safety lessons in schools, a public awareness campaign, better lifesaving equipment, Sam's Law, and a dedicated Minister for Water Safety.
