The family of a teen who went swimming in the River Mersey fear a tragic accident has taken their boy

A tragic incident unfolded at Crosby beach as a 14-year-old boy, Daniel Halliday, went missing in the River Mersey while swimming with friends. The family expressed their devastation, fearing the worst as emergency services launched a search effort. Despite the involvement of coastguard helicopters, lifeboats, and rescue personnel, the search was called off after 15 hours, leaving the family in anguish over the loss of their beloved son. The incident occurred when Daniel, along with his older brother and friends, encountered trouble in the water. Despite efforts to rescue him, the strong current proved too much. The family's plea for privacy during this difficult time highlights the emotional toll of the tragedy. The dangerous nature of the River Mersey was underscored by locals, emphasizing the risks posed by its strong tides and busy shipping lanes. Authorities cordoned off the beach near the Seaforth radar tower, a popular spot known for Antony Gormley's art installation, Another Place. The multi-agency search involved RNLI lifeboats and emergency services, with ongoing appeals for public cooperation to avoid the area. As the search efforts were underway, Sefton council echoed the call to steer clear of the vicinity to facilitate the search operation. Merseyside Police provided updates on the situation, detailing the circumstances of Daniel's disappearance and the ongoing search efforts. The community's response to the tragedy reflected a somber acknowledgment of the dangers posed by the River Mersey, urging caution and awareness when engaging in water activities. Despite the search being discontinued, the impact of this heartbreaking event resonates deeply within the local community and beyond.