Authorities have released a photograph of 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa, who vanished after falling into the River Thames in east London. The tragic incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Monday near Barge House Causeway, North Woolwich, during a school inset day.
Emergency teams launched an “extensive search” for the young girl, but as time passes, the operation has transitioned into a recovery mission.
Community in Shock as Search for Kaliyah Coa Intensifies
The Metropolitan Police, alongside other emergency services, have been combing the area using boats and drone technology in a bid to locate Kaliyah.
Chief Superintendent Dan Card expressed the force’s commitment to supporting Kaliyah Coa’s loved ones and ensuring a thorough search.
“Our specialist officers are supporting Kaliyah’s family through this deeply upsetting time, and our thoughts go out to all those impacted by what has happened,” he said. “We are committed to finding Kaliyah and are working with partners to conduct a thorough search over a wide area.”
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Local residents have also shared their distress over the incident. Kerry Benadjaoud, a 62-year-old resident, recalled hearing about the tragedy from a neighbor.
“She was outside doing her garden, and there were two little kids running. They said, ‘My friend’s in the water,'” Benadjaoud recounted.
Concerns Over Safety at Barge House Causeway
Barge House Causeway, a concrete slope leading directly into the river, is frequently used for transporting boats. However, locals have raised safety concerns, pointing out that the surface appears to be covered in moss and is dangerously slippery.
One witness at the scene attempted to help with a life ring but was told by another bystander that the child had already been struggling. “He said at the time he could see her hands going down,” the witness recalled.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue their search efforts, hoping to bring closure to Kaliyah Coa’s family and the shaken community.
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