Search Continues for Missing 11-Year-Old Girl After Falling into River Thames
A major search operation is underway for an 11-year-old girl who fell into the River Thames at Barge House Causeway, near London City Airport, on Monday afternoon (March 31).
Emergency Response
The Metropolitan Police were called to the scene at around 1:15 pm after reports of a child in the water. Emergency services, including police, London Ambulance Service, and specialist water rescue teams, responded with a large-scale operation to locate the missing girl.
Witnesses described the chaotic moments when the young girl disappeared into the river. Resident Kerry Benadjaoud, 62, recounted how two children ran past her neighbour’s garden, shouting that their friend had fallen into the water.
Desperate Attempts to Save the Girl
Ms. Benadjaoud quickly grabbed a life ring and rushed to the shoreline. However, by the time she arrived, the girl was nowhere to be seen. A man nearby had already called the police and said he had seen the girl’s hands going under the water.
“I couldn’t find her,” said Ms. Benadjaoud, visibly shaken. She later found the girl’s shoes, a sock, a coat, and a phone near the riverbank and handed the items to the police.
A young boy who had been with the girl revealed that he had tried to hold her hand after she entered the water, but it slipped from his grasp. Ms. Benadjaoud said, “The little boy turned around and said, ‘I tried to hold her hand, but it slipped.'” She expressed concern for the boy’s well-being, adding, “Obviously he needs to see someone because it’s going to affect him later.”
Circumstances Leading to the Incident
According to witnesses, the girl had been paddling in the water when she appeared to lose her footing and slipped in. Local residents noted that Barge House Causeway is a concrete slope leading directly into the River Thames, commonly used for boat access.
Ongoing Search Efforts
The London Ambulance Service confirmed that they were called to Lowestoft Mews after reports of a person in the water. They sent an ambulance crew, an advanced paramedic, an incident response officer, and members of their hazardous area response team. However, their services were later stood down as search operations continued.
A police spokesperson confirmed that the girl’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers. They also stated that the search is ongoing and that the safety and well-being of those involved are a priority.
Community Impact
The local community remains in shock as the search continues. Residents have expressed their sadness and concern, with many gathering near the scene, hoping for positive news.
Authorities are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could assist the search to come forward.
Updates will be provided as the search and investigation progress.
