Body found amid three-month search for missing boy, 2, after he fell into River Soar
A body has been found in the search for missing two-year-old Xielo Maruziva who fell into the River Soar
PA
A body has been found in the search for missing two-year-old Xielo Maruziva who fell into the River Soar.
The toddler fell into the water at Aylestone Meadows - nature reserve in Leicester - in February.
The body found by contractors carrying out work in the area today - though formal identification is yet to take place - is believed to be that of the two-year-old.
His family are being supported by specialist officers, Leicestershire Police said.
A body has been found in the search for missing two-year-old Xielo Maruziva who fell into the River SoarPAA force spokesperson said: "A body has been found in the search for two-year-old Xielo Maruziva, who fell into the River Soar on Sunday, 18 February.
"The body was found earlier this morning (Thursday) following workers carrying out work in the area of Aylestone Meadows near the River Soar.
"The body has been recovered and formal identification will now take place. Specialist officers are providing support to Xielo’s family. HM Coroner has been informed."
Emergency services were called to the River Soar in Aylestone Meadows at around 5pm on Sunday, February 18, after the youngster fell into the water.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
The toddler's family described him as a "cheeky, funny, friendly, smart, caring and independent little boy".
Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr added: "This is devastating news and our thoughts are with Xielo’s family.
"We are so sorry to bring them this news which we were all dreading and our full support is being provided to them at this most difficult time.
"Formal identification will now take place and we ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this time.
The toddler fell into the water at Aylestone Meadows - nature reserve in Leicester - in February
PA
"Full support is also being provided to the workers who were in the area of Aylestone Meadows this morning and I want to thank them for their support and co-operation in the most horrendous and unimaginable circumstances."
ACC Kerr added: "Thank you to everyone who has been involved in the search for Xielo for your dedicated work in extremely traumatic circumstances and an extremely complex search.
"Thank you also to our communities and wider members of the public for your continued support."
You may like
