Tragic drowning of 8-year-old Joshua Hillstead in River Arrow, Birmingham
- Joshua Hillstead, an 8-year-old boy from Birmingham, was pulled from the River Arrow on July 22 and died on July 23 due to drowning complications.
- His family released a moving tribute expressing their devastation and love for him, describing him as kind and special.
- The incident has deeply affected his family and the community, highlighting the importance of water safety.
On July 22, emergency services were called to the River Arrow in Birmingham at 9:30 PM after an 8-year-old boy, Joshua Hillstead, was pulled from the water. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he tragically succumbed to complications from drowning the following day, July 23. Joshua was described by his family as a kind, caring, and gentle boy who brought immense joy to their lives. His loss has left a profound impact on his family, including his older sister Caitlyn-Ann and younger brother Joey. In a heartfelt tribute released on September 2, Joshua's family expressed their devastation and love for him, highlighting the deep void his passing has created in their lives. They emphasized the special bond they shared with him and the pride they felt in being his parents. The family also extended their gratitude to the emergency services for their efforts in rescuing Joshua and allowing them precious time to say goodbye. The tribute reflected the family's enduring love and the hope that Joshua is at peace. They described him as beautiful in every way and expressed their longing to reunite with him in the future. The community has also been affected by this tragedy, as Joshua's story resonates with many who understand the pain of losing a loved one. This incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety around water. The family's heartfelt words and the community's support highlight the collective grief experienced in the wake of such a tragic event.