Police have named the 11-year-old boy who went missing after entering the River Don in South Yorkshire as Mackenzie Swift. Rescue teams are continuing to search for him.
Mackenzie Swift was reported missing at about 8pm on Saturday after he was seen entering the river in Mexborough, near Doncaster. South Yorkshire Police have been leading the search, supported by specialist teams including underwater search units and the fire service.
“An 11-year-old boy named Mackenzie Swift went missing after entering the River Don in Mexborough, South Yorkshire, on Saturday evening. Police and rescue teams are searching.”
The River Don flows through South Yorkshire and is known to have strong currents, particularly after recent rainfall. The area around Mexborough is a mix of residential streets and industrial land, with the riverbank popular for walking.
South Yorkshire Police have not released further details about the circumstances leading to Mackenzie entering the water. They have urged the public to avoid the area as searches continue. Local residents have expressed shock and concern, with some gathering near the river to offer support to the family.
The search operation involves multiple agencies, and police have said they are keeping an open mind about what happened. There is no suggestion of any third-party involvement at this stage.
Assistant Chief Constable Simon Giles of South Yorkshire Police said: "Our thoughts are with Mackenzie's family and friends at this distressing time. We are doing everything we can to find him." He added that officers are working closely with the family and are being supported by specially trained officers.
What happens next? The search will continue through the night and into the coming days. Police have not set a deadline and say they will maintain a presence on the river. Any updates will be issued by South Yorkshire Police.
What This Means For You For parents and guardians in the UK, this tragic incident is a reminder of the dangers posed by rivers, especially after heavy rain. The River Don, like many waterways, can have unpredictable currents and cold water shock. If you live near a river, ensure children are aware of the risks and never swim alone. For the local community in Mexborough, the search may cause disruption near the riverbank, and police ask you to avoid the area to allow emergency services to work."