The family of missing 20-year-old Jayden Tones is facing an agonising wait for answers after the devastating discovery of a body in a Norwich river. The find in the River Wensum on Tuesday has left loved ones bracing for the worst, though formal identification has yet to be completed.
In a moving and heartfelt tribute, Jayden's older brother, Reece Tones, has spoken of the family's utter devastation, describing the past few days as a "living nightmare". He poured his grief onto social media, writing: "My heart is broken. I love you so much little bro, I can’t believe you’re gone. I’d do anything to have you back."
A Community's Hopes Dashed
The discovery brings a tragic likely conclusion to a large-scale search operation that gripped the local community. Jayden, also known affectionately as Jay, was last seen in the early hours of Saturday morning, prompting widespread concern and appeals for information from both his family and Norfolk Police.
Officers confirmed that the body was recovered from the River Wensum near the Queen Street area of the city. While the discovery is directly linked to the search for Jayden, police have been careful to state that formal identification procedures are still ongoing.
An Outpouring of Grief and Support
Reece's public tribute has sparked an enormous outpouring of sympathy and support from friends, family, and the wider Norwich community. The emotional post continued, highlighting the deep bond between the brothers: "You didn’t deserve this, you had your whole life ahead of you. I’m so sorry I couldn’t protect you. I’m going to miss you every single day."
Norfolk Police have stated that the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner. This standard procedure will seek to establish the full circumstances leading to the tragedy.
The news has cast a pall over the city, as what began as a desperate search for a missing young man now appears to have ended in the most heartbreaking of outcomes. The family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time as they await official confirmation.
