In a tragic turn of events, a body has been discovered in the search for two-year-old Xielo Maruziva, who fell into the River Soar on Sunday, February 18. The grim discovery was made earlier this morning by workers conducting operations in the vicinity of Aylestone Meadows, near the River Soar.

Formal Identification Underway

The recovered body is believed to be that of young Xielo Maruziva, but formal identification procedures are now underway. Specialist officers are providing support to Xielo’s grieving family during this heartbreaking time. HM Coroner has been informed and will assist in the identification process.

Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr’s Statement

Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr expressed her condolences, saying, “This is devastating news, and our thoughts are with Xielo’s family. We are deeply sorry to bring them this news, which we were all dreading. Our full support is being provided to them during this most difficult period. We kindly ask that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”

ACC Kerr also acknowledged the workers who made the discovery, stating, “Full support is also being provided to the workers who were in the area of Aylestone Meadows this morning. I want to thank them for their support and cooperation in the most horrendous and unimaginable circumstances.”

Timeline of Events

The incident unfolded on Sunday, February 18, when Xielo fell into the River Soar near Marsden Lane in Aylestone Meadows. Despite the best efforts of those present at the scene, Xielo could not be located. A dedicated search operation was launched, involving numerous specialist teams deployed to the area.

ACC Kerr expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the search, saying, “Thank you to everyone who has been tirelessly working to find Xielo. Your dedication in extremely traumatic circumstances and during an extremely complex search is commendable. We also extend our appreciation to our communities and the wider public for their continued support.”