Boy, 12, drowns in River Lea at Hackney Marshes
Hackney Mayor Zoe Garbett says the community is 'heartbroken'
The mayor of Hackney's described the drowning of a 12-year-old boy in the River Lea as a 'devastating loss to the whole community'.
The tragedy happened during the hot weather over the weekend.
Specialist rescue teams were called to the water near Hackney Marshes on Saturday night after reports of a child in difficulty.
The boy's body was recovered just after midnight.
A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said:
"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.
The Brigade was called just after 6pm and fire engines from Homerton, Leyton and Leytonstone fire stations were sent to the scene.
Specialist Fire Rescue Units from Edmonton and Bethnal Green fire stations, as well as the Brigade’s Drone Team, were also deployed.
Mayor of Hackney Zoe Garbett has released a statement.
She 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.
“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.”