Body recovered from River Ribble after large-scale search for 12-year-old boy
Formal identification is pending following the search operation
Last updated 27th May 2026
A body believed to be that of a 12-year-old boy has been recovered from the River Ribble in Ribchester following a large-scale search operation.
The boy encountered difficulties while swimming with friends in the river earlier today.
Lancashire Police were alerted at 2.06 pm with concerns for his safety, leading to the initiation of a search involving the force's underwater search unit, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and North-West Ambulance Service.
The body was found in the river around 7.50pm.
His family is receiving support from specially trained family liaison officers.
Lancashire Police have stated the death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be submitted to HM Coroner in due course.