Overview
- Emergency crews were called just after 6pm on Saturday when the boy was seen entering the River Lea, and police divers recovered a body at about 00:15 on Sunday.
- The Metropolitan Police, supported by the London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service, conducted an overnight multi-agency search that used specialist rescue units and a drone team.
- Detective Inspector Azmeen Pinnu said the death is being treated as unexpected or unexplained and that inquiries are continuing to establish the full circumstances.
- The boy’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers, and Hackney’s mayor offered condolences and asked people not to speculate or share distressing material.
- Coverage has highlighted wider concerns about drownings and water safety, and the coroner-led inquiry will determine cause before any inquest or policy action is taken.