A 12-year-old boy tragically drowned after swimming with friends in the River Ribble at Ribchester, Lancashire, during the current heatwave. Lancashire Constabulary received the emergency call shortly after 2pm, triggering a large-scale search with support from the police underwater search unit, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and North-West Ambulance Service.
Intense River Search
The extensive search operation lasted several hours before a body believed to be the missing boy’s was recovered at approximately 7.50pm from the river. Formal identification is pending.
Police Confirm No Suspicion
Lancashire police have stated the death is not being treated as suspicious. A file will be sent to HM Coroner for further investigation.
Family Support Underway
“His family are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers, and our thoughts are very much with his loved ones at this extremely distressing time,” said Lancashire Constabulary.
