Police divers recovered the body of a 12-year-old boy from the River Lea near Hackney Marshes in London on Sunday, just after midnight. The boy had entered the water on Saturday evening, prompting a large emergency response.
Emergency services were called to Hackney Marshes at around 6pm on Saturday, August 15, following reports that a boy had entered the water. The London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police responded, with specialist rescue units deployed from Edmonton and Bethnal Green fire stations, along with a drone team.
Recovery and Investigation
The boy was declared dead at the scene after police divers located his body. The incident is now under investigation, and authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation on social media while the inquiry continues.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade confirmed: "Sadly, a boy has drowned in the River Lea, near the Hackney Marshes. Firefighters were called to reports of a person in the water and crews carried out a systematic search of the river alongside officers from the Metropolitan Police Service. Sadly, a boy was declared dead at the scene, following the recovery of a body by police divers."
Community Mourning
Tributes have poured in from the local community, with many expressing shock and sadness over the tragedy. Mayor of Hackney Zoë Garbett released a statement offering condolences to the boy's family and friends.
Mayor Garbett said: "We were heartbroken to learn about the tragic death of a 12-year-old boy at Hackney Marshes this weekend. All of our thoughts are with the child’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. This is a devastating loss for our community, and I know many will be feeling a deep sense of shock and sadness. The boy’s family will need time to grieve this unimaginable loss, so please respect their privacy."
Appeal for Privacy
The Mayor also thanked emergency services for their rapid response and extensive efforts throughout the night. She urged the public to avoid sharing speculation on social media as the investigation continues.
"I want to thank the emergency services for their rapid response and the extensive efforts they made throughout the night. As the investigation into this tragic incident continues, please avoid sharing speculation on social media," she added.
The incident has raised awareness about water safety in the area, and authorities are reminding the public to be cautious near rivers and open water.
