Family Mourns 11-Year-Old Kaliyah Lost in Thames Tragedy
The family of 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa say their world has been shattered after the young girl tragically drowned in the River Thames. Kaliyah slipped into the water near Barge House Causeway, North Woolwich, during a school inset day on March 31 while playing with friends.
Two Weeks of Agony Before Tragic Discovery
Despite frantic calls for help and a massive multi-agency search operation, Kaliyah’s body was not found until nearly two weeks later. On April 13, just after 9am, her body was recovered at Maritime Quay on the Isle of Dogs. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed her identity and continue to support the devastated family.
“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 has also thanked everyone involved in the search and requested privacy to grieve in peace.
“We sincerely hope that everyone will respect our wishes to be given the space and time to grieve as a family.”
Witnesses Recall Chilling Moments
Local resident Shaleen Rajaendram, 59, remembers the terrifying scene when two children ran to her in panic:
“They said, ‘one of my friends was playing in the water… she’s gone underneath and we can’t find her’.”
She warned of the treacherous conditions by the riverbank:
“The water is very high. The causeway was very slippery and appeared to be covered in moss.”
Police Call It A ‘Tragic Accident’
Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, leading the investigation, described the heartbreaking loss as a “tragic accident that took away a little girl who was loved by many.”
“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.”
An inquest into Kaliyah’s death is set to open on Friday, May 2. Her tragic passing is a stark reminder of the dangers lurking even in moments of innocent childhood play by the river.
