Police Appeal For Information Following Girl's Fall Into River Thames

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 31, 2025

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The Incident and Initial Response

The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 PM today, near the Albert Bridge in Chelsea. While precise details are still emerging, early reports suggest the girl, believed to be around 8 years old, may have fallen accidentally while near the riverbank. Witnesses described seeing a young girl in a pink coat and blue jeans near the water's edge before she disappeared into the river.

The emergency services were immediately alerted. The Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, London Ambulance Service, and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) all responded swiftly, launching a comprehensive search and rescue operation.

• Time of incident: Approximately 3:15 PM
• Exact location: Near the Albert Bridge, Chelsea, London
• Description of the girl: Approximately 8 years old, wearing a pink coat and blue jeans.
• Types of emergency services involved: Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, London Ambulance Service, RNLI

The Ongoing Search and Rescue Operation

The search for the missing girl is currently ongoing. A multi-agency operation is underway, utilizing a range of resources and expertise. Teams are searching the river using specialized boats equipped with sonar technology, while a helicopter provides aerial support. Divers are also involved in underwater searches.

The search efforts are facing significant challenges due to the strong currents and limited visibility in parts of the River Thames. The Met Police are coordinating the rescue effort, working closely with all involved agencies to ensure a thorough and efficient search.

• Current status of the search: Ongoing
• Specific search methods used: Boats, helicopters, divers, sonar technology
• Challenges faced by rescue teams: Strong currents, limited visibility
• Updates on the girl's condition: No updates have been released at this time.

Police Appeal for Witnesses

The Metropolitan Police are making a fervent appeal to the public for any information that could assist in locating the missing girl. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident, no matter how insignificant the detail may seem.

They are also seeking any CCTV footage or dashcam recordings from the area around the Albert Bridge between 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM today. Even a brief glimpse could prove invaluable.

• Specific information police are looking for: Witness accounts, CCTV footage, dashcam recordings of the area around the Albert Bridge between 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM.
• Contact details: Anyone with information is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting reference number [Insert Reference Number Here].
• Assurance of confidentiality: All information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Safety Precautions Near the River Thames

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with the River Thames. It's crucial to exercise extreme caution, especially when near water. Parents and guardians must always supervise children closely, ensuring they never venture near the riverbank unattended.

• Importance of supervision of children near water: Constant, vigilant supervision is paramount.
• Awareness of potential dangers: Strong currents, slippery banks, unexpected depth changes are all significant hazards.
• Recommended safety measures: Life jackets should be worn by children near water, and individuals should always stay within designated areas and follow safety guidelines.

Conclusion

The fall of a young girl into the River Thames has prompted a large-scale search and rescue operation. The Metropolitan Police are urgently appealing for any information that could help locate her. The ongoing search involves multiple agencies using various techniques, but the cooperation of the public is crucial. Even small details could be vital to bringing this young girl home.

If you saw anything related to this incident – a girl in a pink coat and blue jeans near the Albert Bridge in Chelsea around 3:15 PM – please contact the Metropolitan Police immediately on 101, quoting reference number [Insert Reference Number Here]. Share this appeal to help spread the word and bring this girl home safely. Use the hashtag #RiverThamesAppeal. Let's all work together to ensure the safe return of this child.