12-year-old boy dies in River Lea drowning in north-east London

A 12-year-old boy has drowned in north-east London.

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) said it was called to reports of a person in the water in the River Lea, near the Hackney Marshes, just after 18:00 BST on Saturday.

Crews searched the river alongside the Metropolitan Police, and the boy's body was recovered by police divers hours later, at about 00:15 BST on Sunday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mayor of Hackney, Zoë Garbett, said she was heartbroken to learn of the boy's death, adding: "All of our thoughts are with the child's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."

Garbett thanked the emergency services for their "rapid response" and "extensive efforts".

"This is a devastating loss for our community, and I know many will be feeling a deep sense of shock and sadness," she said. "The boy's family will need time to grieve this unimaginable loss, so please respect their privacy."

The Met said the boy's death was being treated as unexpected, and his next of kin had been informed and were being supported by specialist officers.

Det Insp Azmeen Pinnu, who is leading the investigation, said: "This is a deeply tragic incident and our thoughts are with the boy's family, friends and the wider community.

"This incident is now being investigated on behalf of the coroner, and enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened."

The LFB said it sent fire engines from Homerton, Leyton and Leytonstone fire stations to the scene along with specialist fire rescue units from Edmonton and Bethnal Green fire stations, and the brigade's drone team.

Firefighters left the scene just after 21:30 on Saturday, the LFB added.