The search for a 16-year-old boy who had gone missing in a reservoir in Dudley took a heartbreaking turn on Tuesday evening. According to West Midlands Police, emergency services rushed to Netherton Reservoir, located in Netherton near Dudley, around 6 pm after reports of a boy struggling in the water.
After more than 17 hours of searching, the boy’s body was found in the large reservoir, known locally as Lodge Farm Reservoir, at approximately 11:30 am today.
A spokesperson from West Midlands Police confirmed the tragic discovery: “After an extensive search of Netherton Reservoir, we have recovered the body of a teenage boy from the water.”
The emergency services had been working non-stop since the boy went missing shortly after 6 pm the previous day.
Sadly, the boy was located shortly before 11:30 am today, and a formal identification will be carried out in due course. Support is being provided to the family during this incredibly difficult time.
Dudley Commander, Chief Superintendent Anthony Tagg, expressed deep sorrow over the incident: “This is a desperately tragic event, and our thoughts are with the boy’s family and friends.”
He also noted the significant impact on the local community, which has shown great support. Extra officers will be present in the area in the coming days, and residents are encouraged to reach out with any concerns.
Witnesses reported a large police presence in the area, including five or six police cars, at least two fire engines, and an incident response unit. A search helicopter was also spotted over the reservoir.
Specialist search teams were deployed early this morning, with community members rallying to support the boy’s family.
Highbridge Road remained closed to facilitate the ongoing search, and the public was advised to avoid the area.
Statements from Emergency Services
James Williams, Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer with West Midlands Ambulance Service, expressed condolences: “This is a truly tragic outcome, and we offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the patient.”
HART paramedics and other emergency services continued the search throughout the night and into the morning.
The teenage boy was eventually found by divers and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Reminder of Water Safety
West Midlands Fire Service Area Manager Marc Hudson highlighted the dangers of open water: “This incident is a stark reminder of the risks associated with reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and canals, especially during the summer holidays.”
He urged everyone to exercise caution around these bodies of water, noting that even though they might look inviting, they can be deceptively dangerous due to strong currents and hidden hazards.
Community Support and Thanks
Cat Eccles, Labour MP for Stourbridge, extended her sympathies via social media: “My thoughts are with the boy’s family and friends following this tragic incident.”
She also thanked community members, including the Dudley Sub Aqua Club and paddle boarders from the Water Sports Club, for their efforts in the search.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the police, referencing case number 4138 of 23 July.
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