Body found in search for missing girl in River Thames

In the United Kingdom, the search for Kaliyah Coa, an 11-year-old girl who went missing over two weeks ago, has culminated in a tragic discovery. Kaliyah disappeared after falling into the River Thames on March 31, during a school inset day while playing near the water at Barge House Causeway in North Woolwich. Despite immediate efforts from emergency services, including the London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade, RNLI, and coastguard, she was not found during the extensive search operation that followed her disappearance. On April 13, 2025, authorities were alerted to a body in the River Thames, close to Maritime Quay around 9am. While the body has not yet been formally identified, Kaliyah’s family has been informed about the discovery and are being supported by specialist officers. The Metropolitan Police are leading the investigation and recovery efforts, having previously issued photographs and public appeals regarding Kaliyah. Residents in the area where she went missing reported seeing her playing moments before the incident occurred, highlighting the dangers of the slippery bank where she fell into the river. Kaliyah's family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they process the heart-wrenching news. Local residents expressed their sorrow over the situation, indicating that this tragedy has impacted the entire community. They reported witnessing the frantic attempts to rescue Kaliyah and the chaotic scene as emergency responders worked tirelessly to locate her. This incident underscores the risks associated with playing near water, particularly in areas where the banks may not be well-maintained. It also prompts discussions around water safety measures for children and the importance of adult supervision during outdoor activities.