Body of 13-year-old found in River Tyne after youngster went missing in water

The body of a missing 13-year-old Northumberland boy has been found in a river.

Shortly before 4:15 pm on Sunday, July 17 Northumbria Police received reports of a young male who had come into trouble in the River Tyne near Ovingham.

Emergency services were deployed to the area and searches for the 13-year-old took place with crews from Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue Service, Northumberland Fire & Rescue Service, HM Coastguard and Mountain Rescue in attendance.

Sadly, a body has since been found in the water. Formal identification is yet to take place but police believe it to be the missing male.

His family have been informed and specialist family liaison officers are continuing to offer them any support they need.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Brooks, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an absolutely tragic update that we sincerely hoped we would never have to give.

“Sadly, after extensive searches carried out in the river yesterday afternoon and evening, a body has been found and we believe it to be the male who was reported missing.

“Our thoughts go out to the male’s family and friends at this devastating time and I would ask that their privacy is respected as they attempt to come to terms with what has happened.

“I would like to thank every organisation who assisted us with our searches, including all the volunteers. Your support is absolutely vital and it is hugely appreciated.

“It is with great sadness that we could not provide a more positive update.”

Police do not believe there to be any third-party involvement and a report will be made for the coroner.