The grieving family of a nine-year-old girl who passed away after falling into the River Thames has honored her as their “beautiful angel.”
The young person, identified online as ‘Bia,’ passed away after entering the water near Royal Pier Road in Gravesend, Kent, around 1:40 pm on Friday.
Kent Police reported that her body was found in the river on Monday morning following a search conducted by the police’s marine units, the coastguard helicopter, and lifeboats.
Heartbroken family members stated that “she had her entire future ahead,” yet also acknowledged that “her life was determined by God.”
Relative Mirela Turcanu posted on social media: ‘Oh, she left us speechless, this little girl had her whole life ahead of her, but she had the life that was decided by God.
‘An easy path to paradise, my dear niece.’
Leon Alkapone referred to her as “my niece, my gorgeous angel.”
A different comment read: “Rest In Peace, Tiny Angel, Bia. May God bring solace to the sorrowing family.”
Emergency responders were summoned to the Royal Terrace Pier in Gravesend at 1:46 PM on Friday.
Two children, a boy and a girl, encountered trouble in the water; however, the boy—who is thought to be around seven years old—was subsequently rescued from the river.
At 11:40 am on Saturday, authorities retrieved a body from the river close to Gravesend, and official identification by the deceased’s family members was subsequently confirmed.
The police stated that the death is currently not considered suspicious, and a report will be compiled for the coroner.
Bia was playing with her cousin near the water when she slipped and the current pulled her in, it is understood.
The child rescued from the water during the first search continues to remain in a nearby hospital, where his condition is currently stable.
Gravesham MP Dr Lauren Sullivan shared a statement on social media on Saturday afternoon, extending her ” deepest sympathies” to the family.
The Labour parliamentarian stated: “I am profoundly distressed to learn that a body was found during the search for the young woman who disappeared into the River Thames in Gravesend.”
I wish to express my gratitude to the emergency services, such as the coast guard, Kent Police, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), and the Port of London Authority along with numerous other organizations for their diligent work during the search operation.
I am aware that numerous viewpoints are currently being shared regarding the situation around this unfortunate incident. Having spoken with officials, it’s appropriate that an inquiry takes place, just as it would for any similar sorrowful occurrence. However, at the core of this matter lies a grieving family and community, and I trust that everybody will show them the necessary respect.
I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of the child, and I am keeping them all in my prayers during this difficult period.
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