Manchester boy killed while cooling off
A schoolboy has apparently drowned while swimming in a river in Tameside.
It looks like the heatwave has claimed the life of a schoolboy in Manchester who died in a river during scorching temperatures.
Police were called to reports that a boy had got into difficulty in the River Etherow near to Broadbottom Road, Hyde at tea time (5.45pm on Tuesday 19 July 2016.)
Reports on social media claimed the boy was playing with friends when he disappeared under the surface and failed to return. Specialist divers recovered the body a short time later.
Detective Inspector Andy Sandiford of GMP’s Tameside borough, said: “We have launched an investigation into this tragic incident which appears to have begun with a group of friends playing in the river on a hot summer’s day. “While we don’t yet know for sure what happened, we understand the water appeared calm and shallow, but there may have been strong undercurrents and hidden hazards beneath the surface. “A team of detectives are investigating the incident and have concluded that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the boy’s death. “The family of the boy are being supported by specially trained officers during this difficult time.” For advice and information about water safety, please visit the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service website www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/fire_safety_advice/seasonal_safety/water_safety/