A body found during the search of a river in Leicestershire has been confirmed as missing two-year-old Xielo Maruziva, police have said.
A major search operation was launched after Xielo fell into the River Soar while walking with family members in Aylestone Meadows on 18 February.
His father entered the water to try to rescue him, sparking a vast rescue operation including over 200 officers and five specialist teams.
But despite their efforts, the toddler – described as “cheeky, funny, friendly, smart, caring and independent” by his distraught family – was not found, and the BBC reported that the operation had been scaled back several weeks later.
Leicestershire Police said a body had been recovered from the river last Thursday and announced on Monday that formal identification had now taken place.
Confirming the body belonged to Xielo, Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr said: “We are so sorry to bring this news.
“This is a devastating and tragic incident and our thoughts are with all of Xielo’s family at this most difficult and unimaginable time. We ask that the privacy of the family continues to be respected at this time.”
This is a breaking news story – more to follow
