11-Year-Old Girl Missing After Falling Into River Thames

A tragic incident unfolded in East London as an 11-year-old Girl Missing After Falling Into River Thames near the Woolwich Ferry, prompting an extensive search operation by emergency services. The young girl’s family has been informed, and authorities are working tirelessly to locate her.

The Incident: How the Girl Fell Into the River Thames

On Monday, March 31, at approximately 1:15 PM, the Metropolitan Police received reports of an 11-year-old girl entering the River Thames near Barge House Causeway, E16.

The circumstances surrounding how she fell into the water remain unclear, but emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene. Witnesses nearby raised the alarm, and authorities quickly mobilized efforts to search for the missing child.

The incident took place close to the Woolwich Ferry, a well-known crossing point over the Thames. Given the strong currents of the river and its unpredictable nature, concerns grew rapidly about the girl’s safety.

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Officers from the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, and RNLI were deployed to the area to begin the search and rescue mission. Helicopters and boats scoured the river, but as time passed, hopes of finding her alive began to dwindle.

The Search Efforts by Emergency Services

A large-scale search operation was launched immediately, involving multiple emergency service agencies. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that all available resources were being utilized in an attempt to locate the missing child.

The search operation included police helicopters, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), the London Fire Brigade, and Border Force units. The London Ambulance Service was also present at the scene, prepared to provide medical assistance if necessary.

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An RNLI spokeswoman confirmed that their lifeboat had been deployed but was later stood down after conducting a thorough search of the area. The London Fire Brigade played a crucial role in the search, using drones and a fire boat to conduct a systematic sweep of the river.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Joseph Kenny provided details about the extensive efforts: “Firefighters responded to reports of a person in the River Thames near Lowestoft Mews, Newham.

Crews from East Ham, Barking, Ilford, and Bexley fire stations were sent to the scene alongside teams from HM Coastguard, RNLI, London Ambulance Service, and the Metropolitan Police Service.”

Despite the swift response and coordinated efforts, the girl remained missing, raising concerns about the challenges posed by the river’s strong currents and the frigid water temperature. Authorities continued their search, hoping for a positive outcome, but the situation remained critical.

The Family’s Agonizing Wait and Public Reactions

The missing girl’s family was notified of the incident and was being supported by the police as the search continued. Understandably, the family was in distress, anxiously awaiting any news about their loved one. Their worst fears were becoming a reality as hours passed without any sign of the young girl.

The local community in East London expressed their sorrow and concern over the tragic event. Many residents took to social media to offer prayers and support to the family, while others urged authorities to continue their search efforts relentlessly.

Several people pointed out the need for increased safety measures near the river, especially in areas frequently accessed by the public. The River Thames, despite being a lifeline for the city, has claimed numerous lives over the years due to its powerful currents and treacherous waters. Some suggested that more safety barriers and warning signs should be put in place to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As the search operation continued, authorities reminded the public to stay cautious around bodies of water and to report any sightings that could help locate the missing girl. The case has drawn national attention, with many hoping for a miracle despite the grim circumstances.

The Metropolitan Police have assured the public that their efforts will not cease until all possible measures have been taken to find the missing child. For now, the city of London waits with bated breath, hoping for a safe return.