Yahoo News Body found in search for missing schoolboy last seen playing with his brother
A body has tragically been found in the search for a schoolboy who went missing while jumping waves on a beach with his brother.
Daniel Halliday, 14, was lost to a strong current in the River Mersey despite his older brother trying to save him, his family said. Emergency services were called to Crosby beach at around 7pm on June 30 to mount a search.
A body was found by the Coastguard off New Brighton on Monday night (July 8). Merseyside Police said while the body has not yet been formally identified, their officers remain in contact with the family of Daniel.
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It was reported that Daniel and his elder brother were playing in the waves at Crosby beach when a particularly large wave knocked them off their feet. Despite the brave efforts of Daniel's older brother, he was unable to rescue his sibling, reports the ECHO.
Emergency services were launched at the scene at the time including a large response from fire and rescue service, police, coastguards and RNLI teams. On Monday, July 1, after 15 hours, the coastguard confirmed that the search had been suspended.
Daniel's family issued a heartfelt statement on July 2 saying: "Our worst fear is that this tragic accident has taken our lovely boy from us. Daniel was jumping waves with his big brother who tried to save him but the current was too strong.
"Daniel is a loving son, brother, cousin, nephew and grandson. The family are all devastated, and we hope that we will be allowed our privacy at this time. Thank you."
Dozens of people sent messages of support to Daniel's family on Facebook after it was confirmed a body had been found. Pat Mcgrath said: "Thinking of the family who will be devastated."
Grace Becca wrote: "So sad and heartbreaking, sending love to all." Julie Mullineux added: "So sad, thinking of all the family and friends." Catherine Brooks said: "Thinking of the family."
