Boy Missing in River Don Identified
Police have identified the 11-year-old boy who went missing in the River Don in South Yorkshire as Mackenzie Swift. The search efforts for Mackenzie remain ongoing.
Mackenzie was last seen entering the water near Ferry Boat Lane in Mexborough at approximately 20:00 BST on Saturday and has not been located since.
Search Efforts and Family Support
South Yorkshire Police reported that Mackenzie’s family are enduring “every parent’s worst nightmare.” The search operation includes an underwater search team and assistance from Mountain Rescue volunteers.
"Our family liaison officers have sadly had the heartbreaking conversation with Mackenzie's family that if he had not exited the river on Saturday, he could not have survived in the water for this length of time,"a force spokesperson said.
"Sadly, none of our enquiries so far have found any indication that he got out of the water."
Mackenzie’s family continues to receive support from officers. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow search teams to work effectively.
Police Presence and Public Appeal
Officers are maintaining a presence at the site overnight, with plans to resume further searches at first light on Tuesday.
Chief Superintendent Pete Thorp addressed the public, emphasizing the importance of leaving the search to professionals.
"I understand members of the public are desperate to help, but I must ask that you leave this work to the professional search teams.
"Please do not put yourselves or others in danger by searching in and around water, and if asked to leave by officers, please understand this is for your own safety and to ensure our efforts focus solely on finding Mackenzie."
"The thoughts of all those involved in the extensive search operation remain with Mackenzie and his family."
Additional Information
Listeners can hear highlights from South Yorkshire on and catch up with the latest episode of Look North for ongoing updates regarding the search.
