Urgent search underway as girl, 11, falls into River Thames

In the United Kingdom, authorities have initiated a significant search operation following the incident of an 11-year-old girl who fell into the River Thames. The incident occurred on March 31, 2025, around 1:15 PM, near Barge House Causeway, which is close to London City Airport. Emergency services, including police, the London Fire Brigade, and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), responded quickly to the situation. Members of the girl's family have been informed and are receiving support from officers on the scene. The Metropolitan Police received reports indicating that the girl had entered the water and mobilized a large-scale response to locate her. The search efforts have involved police boats, helicopters, and additional resources such as a Border Force Viper boat. The London Fire Brigade contributed to the effort by dispatching a fireboat and employing drone technology to facilitate a thorough search of the river’s vicinity. Initially, search teams were hopeful of finding the child quickly; however, as time passed, the situation became more concerning. The emergency services engaged in systematic searches of the surrounding area, while local bystanders attempted to aid the efforts. Eyewitness accounts describe the scene, including reports that other children, who were accompanying the girl, raised the alarm after witnessing her fall into the river. A local resident reported retrieving the girl’s belongings, including her mobile phone and clothing, which heightened the urgency of the search. As the search operation continued, support from various emergency service units was coordinated to maximize resources. The fire brigade concluded their operations early in the afternoon, transferring responsibility for the search back to the police. Currently, authorities are diligently working to locate the girl, hoping for a positive outcome as they manage the delicate situation in the midst of public concern.