An eight-year-old boy who drowned in the River Arrow in Alcester died in his dad’s arms in hospital, family friends have said.
Joshua Hillstead was pulled from the water on Tuesday night after police, ambulance and fire services were called to the scene.
Warwickshire Police said in a statement he died from complications resulting from drowning.
A GoFundMe has been set up by a family friend following the tragedy.
Kyle Hotchkins, who is organising the fundraiser, wrote on the page: ‘I am fundraising to help the family of Josh Hillstead who horrendously lost his life after coming into difficulty in the River Arrow, Alcester on Monday evening.
‘He passed away last night in his Dads arms 23/7/24 in Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
‘As a friend of the family, I have spoken to Josh’s Dad and I want to give them help, so they do not have to worry about anything whilst they are going through this horrendous tragedy.’
One other child was also in the water but did not require further treatment.
DI Heidi Twynham said: ‘Losing a child is devastating, and we offer our condolences to the family after this tragic accident – we are liaising with the family to provide support.
‘Fast, unpredictable currents and invisible deeper sections make rivers dangerous places, particularly for children and non-confident swimmers. Please take caution around our waterways.
‘Thank you to our officers, members of the emergency services, and the hospital staff for everything you’ve done over the past few days.’
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