Police search for a two-year-old boy who fell into the river and find the body

A body has been found in the search for two-year-old Xielo Maruziva, who fell into the River Soar in February, Leicestershire Police said. A search was launched to find Xielo after Leicestershire Police received information that the little boy, who was with family members, fell into the water on February 18 in Aylestone Meadows, off Marsden Lane, Leicester.

The body was found in the Aylestone Meadows area near the river on Thursday morning after work was carried out. Formal identification has not yet taken place but the coroner has been informed and Xielo’s family are being supported by specialist officers, the force said.

Deputy Chief Constable Michaela Kerr said: “This is devastating news and our thoughts are with Xielo’s family. We are very sorry to break this news to them, which we were all dreading, and our full support is extended to them at this most difficult time. .

“Formal identification will now take place and we ask that the family’s privacy be respected at this time. Full support is also being given to the workers who were in the Aylestone Meadows area this morning and I want to thank them for their support and co-operation. -operation in the most horrific and unimaginable circumstances.”

Ms Kerr thanked everyone involved in the search, as well as the community and wider members of the public.

Speaking in February, Xielo’s parents described their son as a “naughty, funny” boy who is “a bundle of joy”.

His mother said: “Myself, his father and the whole family are so devastated by what has happened. Thank you to everyone who supported and helped us during this time. We are extremely grateful for that. All we want is for Xielo to be found as soon as possible.”