Police in Leicester name boy, 2, who fell into river
The boy, who fell into the River Soar on Sunday while out with his family, has been named as Xielo Maruziva.
Wednesday 21 February 2024 21:32, UK
A two-year-old boy who fell into a river in Leicester has been named by police.
Xielo Maruziva fell into the River Soar on Sunday at around 5pm while out with his family in the area of Aylestone Meadows, on the outskirts of Leicester.
His father went into the water and attempted to rescue him, and police later launched a large search operation. However, Xielo is yet to be found.
In a statement, released through Leicestershire Police, Xielo's mother described him as a "cheeky, funny, friendly, smart, caring and independent little boy".
"He never fails to make me laugh or smile and always loves a cuddle and some kisses," she said.
"Xielo loves playing with his toys and watching cartoons including Bino and Fino.
"Me, his dad and the whole family are so heartbroken at what has happened. We thank everyone who has supported us and helped us during this time. We are extremely grateful for this.
"All we want is for Xielo to be found as soon as possible. Thank you."
Xielo's father added: "Xielo is a bundle of joy to us.
"He is a charming and creative little boy and has just started at nursery. He loves cuddles, playing with his toys and going to the park."
Police searching for Xielo say they have CCTV footage which they believe shows the moment he fell into the water.
Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr, who is leading the search for the boy, gave an update at a news conference on Tuesday afternoon.
"We have now recovered CCTV imagery that we believe shows the moment when the little boy disappeared into the water and we have been able to establish some further information from dog walkers and members of the local community," she said.
ACC Kerr said the CCTV footage allowed the police to be "really clear about the circumstances and exactly where the little boy went into the river".
She added the police's "number one priority" was "recovering that little boy and making sure that the family are well supported".
"It must be the most harrowing time for them," the assistant chief constable added.
Leicestershire Police have said the search has been made challenging by poor weather conditions, but fellow officers from West Mercia, Kent and the Metropolitan Police forces are helping them.
There are also divers in the water searching for the boy, as well as marine recovery dogs searching the area.
Police helicopters have also been part of the search.
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On Monday, police said the child's father had entered the water in an "attempt to try and get the child".
The man was taken to hospital as a "precautionary measure", but has now been discharged.
ACC Kerr concluded the news conference by saying there was "nothing to suggest anything except... this is a tragic set of circumstances where a little boy is in the water, and we need to find that little boy and return him to his family".
Police are still urging anyone with any information that may assist officers to contact the force immediately.