The family of 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa, who tragically died after falling into the River Thames, say their lives “will never be the same” following the devastating loss.
Kaliyah went missing on March 31 after entering the water near Barge House Causeway in North Woolwich during a school inset day. She had been playing with friends when she slipped into the river. Despite immediate calls for help and an extensive multi-agency search, the young girl was not found until nearly two weeks later.
Her body was discovered on April 13 at Maritime Quay on the Isle of Dogs, just after 9am. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the identity and said that specialist officers are continuing to support the family.
In a moving statement, Kaliyah’s loved ones said:
“Our hearts are broken and our lives will never be the same. We were blessed to have Kaliyah, even if it was for such a short time. She will be missed so much. Kaliyah went to a birthday party and never returned home to her family.”
The family also thanked all those involved in the search and recovery, asking for privacy:
“We sincerely hope that everyone will respect our wishes to be given the space and time to grieve as a family.”
An inquest into Kaliyah’s death is scheduled to open on Friday, May 2.
Witnesses at the scene have recalled the harrowing moments after Kaliyah fell into the water. Shaleen Rajaendram, 59, who lives nearby, said two children ran up to her in distress.
“They said, ‘one of my friends was playing in the water… she’s gone underneath and we can’t find her’.”
She noted the dangerous conditions near the riverbank:
“The water is very high. The causeway was very slippery and appeared to be covered in moss.”
Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, leading the investigation, described the incident as a “tragic accident that took away a little girl who was loved by many.”
He also addressed the impact on the wider community:
“Our specialist officers will continue to support Kaliyah’s family as they process this heart-breaking news. I echo her family’s request for privacy… and urge the public to refrain from wholly inaccurate speculation both on and offline.”
“I would like to extend my thanks to our search and recovery teams, supported by blue light partners. I know the local community has been deeply impacted by this incident and also thank them for their support.”
The heartbreaking loss of Kaliyah has sent ripples across the community, and her memory is now a painful reminder of the dangers posed by the river, even in moments of innocent play.
