Public urged to avoid joining search efforts as specialized teams deployed in rescue operation

Leicestershire Police have issued an urgent plea to the public as search teams intensify efforts to locate a two-year-old boy who fell into the River Soar in Aylestone Meadows, Leicester. The toddler’s disappearance has prompted a multi-day rescue operation, with additional resources including marine recovery dogs and drones enlisted to aid in the search.

The incident occurred on Sunday around 5 pm, with the child reportedly falling into the river while accompanied by his family. Despite desperate attempts by the boy’s father to rescue him, the child remains missing. The father, who entered the water in a bid to save his son, was later discharged from the hospital after receiving precautionary medical attention.

The search operation, now entering its third day, has garnered support from multiple agencies, including the fire service and various search and rescue teams. Despite the collaborative efforts, authorities have urged the public to refrain from participating in the search to avoid putting themselves at risk.

CCTV footage obtained by the police is believed to capture the moment the child fell into the water, providing crucial insight into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr emphasized that locating the missing child remains the top priority, underscoring the ongoing commitment of law enforcement and rescue teams to reunite the boy with his family.

Efforts are expected to continue in the coming days, with specialized underwater searches and additional support from the Environment Agency enlisted to bolster search operations. The public is urged to cooperate with authorities and refrain from independent search efforts to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the rescue operation.