Arab Canada News

News

"Tragic incident": The remains of a missing seven-year-old girl have been found on the banks of the Thames River in London, Ontario.

"Tragic incident": The remains of a missing seven-year-old girl have been found on the banks of the Thames River in London, Ontario.

By Mounira Magdy

Published: August 5, 2024

The remains of a seven-year-old missing girl were found in the Thames River after a search that lasted several days in London, Ontario.

London Police Inspector Shawn Travis said, "At approximately 1:00 PM, members of London Police's Marine Unit and the London Fire Department discovered remains that we believe are related to the investigation."

About 150 people had been searching every day since Anna Bailey, 7, went into the river Thursday afternoon near Adelaide and Kepps Lane where her family lives.

Police helicopters, water search and rescue teams, and volunteers had been combing the river since her disappearance Thursday night.

Her body was found Sunday afternoon near the Perth and University Drive area where the river crosses through the Western University campus, about four kilometers from where she entered the water.

Travis said, "This week has been a highly coordinated effort between Ontario Provincial Police, the London Fire Department, volunteer agencies, London search and rescue teams, and Huron search and rescue teams to systematically search both banks of the river and waterway as thoroughly as possible."

By Sunday, London fire crews had moved past that area of the river and headed west to the city limits—however, Travis said the teams returned and were able to locate the girl.

Travis said, "It was a comprehensive search operation, which involved understanding the river and its currents and relied on advice from experts."

"It is clearly a tragic incident for everyone involved, and most importantly, the family. Officers and researchers put in long, hard days and strenuous efforts in the weather we experienced, but everyone was dedicated to their mission. At least we will be able to provide some answers."

Police say the investigation has now become a death investigation, with the Major Crimes Unit of the London Police Service supporting the coroner's office in the investigation.

Comments

Related