Police launch search for missing boy, 11, in river

31 May 2026 • 6:24 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Police launch search for missing boy, 11, in river

  • An urgent search is underway for an 11-year-old boy who went missing after entering the River Don in Mexborough, South Yorkshire.
  • Police were called at 7.59pm on Saturday after witnesses saw the boy enter the water but not re-emerge.
  • A multi-agency operation involving South Yorkshire Police, fire and rescue, ambulance, air service, and an underwater search team is actively looking for him.
  • The boy's family has been informed and is receiving support from specially trained officers.
  • Authorities have urged the public to avoid the search area and refrain from spectating or filming, noting the incident occurs amidst a heatwave that has seen multiple water-related deaths across the UK.

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