Tragic discovery in search for missing 14-year-old Daniel Halliday after emergency services scrambled to River Mersey
Police searching for missing teenager Daniel Halliday have confirmed a body has been found.
The 14-year-old was last seen on June 30, after entering the water at Crosby beach, Merseyside. He had been playing with his elder brother - jumping into waves - before getting into difficulty.
Both were reportedly taken off their feet by a large wave. Although Daniel's brother tried desperately to save him, he wasn't able to reach him, the Echo reports.[1]
On July 8, police confirmed a body had been found by HM Coastguard in a river at New Brighton. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a large emergency services presence including police, the RNLI and HM Coastguard.
Today (July 13), it was confirmed that the body found in the River Mersey was Daniel Halliday's. A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm that the body of a male found in the River Mersey is that of missing 14-year-old Daniel Halliday.
(Image: No credit)
"Officers received a report that the body of a boy had been found by HM Coastguard on the evening of Monday 8 July in the river at New Brighton. Following extensive forensic examinations by Merseyside Police, the boy has been formally identified as Daniel Halliday. Daniel had been reported to have been jumping waves in Crosby at 7pm on Sunday 30 June before getting into difficulty.
"Officers are supporting his family at this difficult time. His death is being treated as not suspicious and the case was referred to the coroner's office."
His family released a moving statement paying tribute to their son. It said: "Our worst fear is that this tragic accident has taken our lovely boy from us. Daniel was jumping waves with his big brother who tried to save him but the current was too strong. Daniel is a loving son, brother, cousin, nephew and grandson. The family are all devastated, and we hope that we will be allowed our privacy at this time. Thank you.."
Daniel's family is being supported by specially trained Merseyside Police officers. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to DM @MerPolCC quoting reference 24000574939.
References
- ^ the Echo reports. (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Young Ryanair pilot who died in devastating M62 lorry collision pictured (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)