Body Found in Search for Missing Schoolboy Mylo Capilla, 13, in River Tees Tragedy
A body has been found in the search for 13-year-old Mylo Capilla, who disappeared after entering the River Tees near Ingleby Barwick, Stockton-on-Tees, on Thursday night.
Mylo was last seen at around 9pm on June 26, wearing a dark t-shirt and trousers. Emergency services launched a major search operation after his mum raised the alarm, prompting a multi-agency response involving police divers, rescue boats, drones, and helicopters.
Police Confirm Body Recovered
In a heartbreaking update, Cleveland Police confirmed that a body had been discovered during the search effort on Friday.
“Very sadly, police and partner agencies searching the river for 13-year-old Mylo Capilla at Ingleby Barwick have found the body of a boy,” a spokesperson said.
“Whilst formal identification has yet to take place, Mylo’s parents have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.”
The area known locally as “The Muddies”, near Ramsey Gardens, became the focal point of the intense operation, with Cleveland Mountain Rescue, Cleveland Fire Brigade, and the North East Ambulance Service all attending.
“I Feel Helpless,” Says Mylo’s Father
Mylo’s devastated father, Dan Capilla, 43, described the hours of uncertainty as “numbing.” The last time he saw his son was around 4pm on Thursday when Mylo stopped by his Ingleby home with a friend.
“He gave me a big hug and said ‘love you’ and was playing with the dog. Then he left,” said Dan. “He’s always happy and wants to make people laugh. He would never just go missing or hide – this is completely out of character.”
Dan continued to search the riverbanks throughout the night and Friday morning as specialist water rescue teams combed the area using sonar, drones, and diving equipment.
Community Rallies Amid Emergency Effort
Dozens of residents also joined the search, despite police urging the public to stay away from the steep riverbanks for their own safety and to allow emergency crews to work uninterrupted.
Police had previously stated that Mylo had gone to the river with a friend and entered the water before vanishing. A police helicopter, K9 units, and even RAF assistance were brought in during the operation.
Community in Mourning
The discovery has cast a shadow over the tight-knit community in Ingleby Barwick. Tributes have poured in for Mylo, described by those who knew him as a “loving, caring boy who always wanted to make people laugh.”
The River Tees can be treacherous in areas with strong undercurrents and steep, unstable banks. Authorities continue to warn residents about the risks associated with open water.
What Happens Next?
Formal identification of the body is expected to take place in the coming days. A post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
Police have not indicated any suspicious circumstances and are preparing a report for the coroner.
