Joshua Hillstead dies in fatal Birmingham river drowning
Fatal Birmingham river drowning death of Joshua Hillstead – Obituary
An eight-year-old boy, Joshua Hillstead, has tragically passed away after falling into the River Arrow in Alcester, Midlands, on Monday evening, according to police reports.
Hillstead, from Maypole, Birmingham, was discovered in the river around 9:30 p.m. on Monday and was rushed to the hospital by emergency services. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries later that night.
Another child who had also entered the water was unharmed and was able to return home without needing medical attention.
Detective Inspector Heidi Twynham from Warwickshire Police expressed the gravity of the loss, stating: “The death of a child is profoundly heartbreaking, and our deepest sympathies are with the family during this devastating time. We are in contact with them to offer support.”
Twynham cautioned about the dangers of rivers, noting: “Rivers can be perilous due to swift, unpredictable currents and hidden deeper areas, especially for children and those who are not confident swimmers. We urge everyone to exercise caution around waterways.”
She also extended thanks to the emergency services and hospital staff for their diligent efforts.
This incident follows the death of a 16-year-old boy in the West Midlands, who went missing in a reservoir and was found deceased late Wednesday night.
Emergency responders located the teenager at Lodge Farm Reservoir on Highbridge Road in Netherton, Dudley, shortly before 11:30 p.m. Paramedics confirmed his death at the scene.
James Williams, Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, described the outcome as “heartbreaking” and conveyed his condolences to the teenager’s family and friends. He also appreciated the public’s cooperation during the ongoing emergency response.
Formal identification of the teenager is pending, and his family is receiving support from specialized officers. Chief Superintendent Anthony Tagg of West Midlands Police assured that additional officers will be present in the area in the coming days and encouraged anyone with concerns to reach out.
Fatal Birmingham river drowning death of Joshua Hillstead – Obituary An eight-year-old boy, Joshua Hillstead, has tragically passed away after falling into the River Arrow in Alcester, Midlands, on Monday evening, according to police reports. Hillstead, from Maypole, Birmingham, was discovered in the river around 9:30 p.m. on Monday and was rushed to the hospital…
Fatal Birmingham river drowning death of Joshua Hillstead – Obituary An eight-year-old boy, Joshua Hillstead, has tragically passed away after falling into the River Arrow in Alcester, Midlands, on Monday evening, according to police reports. Hillstead, from Maypole, Birmingham, was discovered in the river around 9:30 p.m. on Monday and was rushed to the hospital…