Rope swing over River Tyne in Northumberland, cut down - close to when teen died at the weekend
A second teenager remains in a critical condition in hospital
Last updated 20th May 2024
A rope swing - which hung over the River Tyne, close to where a teenager died and another's been left in a serious condition - has been cut down.
Floral tributes have also been left in Ovingham following the tragic events on Saturday (18 May).
Police were called out shortly after 3.30pm to reports of concern for the welfare of two teenage boys who were in the river near the bridge.
Emergency services were immediately deployed to the area and one of the boys, aged 13, was rescued from the water.
He was taken to hospital where he currently remains in a critical condition.
A number of organisations conducted a thorough search of the area in a bid to locate the second boy.
Sadly, the 14-year-old’s body was later found in the water and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Floral tributes have also been paid - with both red and white roses laid on the grass bank.
The news has left a community in shock.
One man who'd visited the river bank said:
"It's been a very bad tragedy - a child has lost their life and another is seriously ill.
"I think there should be more done along the River Tyne to tell people not to go into the water - or have safe points, or danger points on the route - something general - it's not nice.
"I've heard from friends in Ovingham, there's been a couple of people who've passed away here - it's not nice for families."
The parents of the 14 year old and the 13 year old are being supported by specially-trained officers at this extremely difficult time.
Chief Superintendent Helena Barron, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an absolutely tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the families of both boys at this difficult time as we continue to support them.
“A number of agencies were involved in the incident and their support was hugely appreciated.
“It is with great sadness that we could not provide a more positive update.”