10-year-old boy drowns in Reading
Police describe his death as 'an absolute tragedy'
Last updated 24th Aug 2023
Thames Valley Police were called to reports of a boy in difficulty in the water in the River Kennet near to Waterloo Meadows at around 2pm on Monday (21/8).
A rapid response commenced with colleagues from Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service and South Central Ambulance Service.
Tragically, Shadrack Appiah, aged 10, died following the incident.
His death is being treated as unexplained, but not suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.
Detective Inspector Hayley Burns said:
“This is an absolute tragedy in which a young boy has died after getting into difficulty in the water.
“His next of kin have been notified and are being offered support at this extremely difficult and traumatic time.
“My thoughts, and the thoughts of all of us at Thames Valley Police are with Shadrack’s family and his friends, and we would ask that their privacy is respected.”
Family Tribute
“We loved Shadrack, he was a quiet person and a Christian who often read the bible.
“He loved football and wanted to be a pilot when he grew up.
“He loved his sisters Natalie and Nicole and they loved him.
“We will all miss him very much.”
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