Police discover body in tragic search for teen gone missing in Cheshire lake | UK | News
A body has been found by rescuers searching for a teenager who disappeared while swimming in open water in Cheshire.
Police were called on Tuesday to reports of a missing child who was last seen in the water at Pickmere Lake in Marston, Northwich.
Officers carried out extensive searches of the area to locate the 17-year-old, with support from the police helicopter, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and specialist Underwater Search Teams. Cheshire Police said the body of a young boy was later recovered from the lake.
Officials added that official identification has not yet been made, but it is believed to belong to the missing teenager. The death is not being treated as suspicious. His family has been informed of the development and is being supported by specially trained officers.
Chief Inspector Jamie Lewis said: “This was a young boy who had his whole life ahead of him. Our thoughts are with the boy’s family, friends and everyone who knew him at an incredibly difficult time.”
He also said: “Sadly we saw the real dangers of open water swimming over the Bank Holiday weekend.
“We know that with hot weather many people may choose to dive into open water to cool off, but residents need to be aware of the potentially fatal consequences.
“We don’t want to deter people from having fun by the water, but there can be mud banks or hidden currents and unseen dangers that a swimmer could get caught in.
“Whilst this location lies between two local authority areas, the incident falls within the Cheshire Constabulary police area and is being managed by us.
“Therefore, it is our duty to inform and protect the public about the potential dangers of such activities across the county. “The message we are sending to our communities is a clear one, do not risk your life by cooling off in open water.
“I would also like to remind visitors to Lake Pickmere to park safely and responsibly.
“While reckless parking will not hinder emergency response in this situation, incidents such as this require immediate access to emergency services and poorly parked vehicles can significantly delay our ability to respond.”
