Body found by workers confirmed to be 2-year-old Xielo Maruziva
Discovery made by teams working in Aylesbury Meadows area
Last updated 10th Jun 2024
A body found following workers carrying out work in the Aylestone Meadows area on Thursday has been formally identified as that of two-year-old Xielo Maruziva, Leicestershire Police have confirmed.
Xielo’s body was recovered after being found on Thursday morning.
The force says specialist officers continue to provide support to Xielo’s family.
HM Coroner has been informed.
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.
“Full support also continues to be provided to the workers who were in the area of Aylestone Meadows on Thursday morning and I continue to thank them for their support and co-operation in the most horrendous circumstances.”
Police were first called to the River Soar in Aylestone Meadows, close to Marsden Lane, at around 5pm on Sunday 18 February after Xielo fell into the water.
Despite the best efforts of people who were at the scene they were not able to locate Xielo.
His disappearance prompted a huge search, with a number of specialist teams deployed to the area.
ACC Kerr added: “I know this news has affected so many of us and again I want to pass on my thanks to everyone who has been involved in the search for Xielo for your dedicated work in extremely traumatic circumstances and an extremely complex search. Thank you also to our communities and wider members of the public for your continued support.”