RIVER TRAGEDY
Body found in major search for missing toddler Xielo Maruziva who fell into River Soar over three months ago
The tot slipped into the river on February 18, with his dad desperately leaping in to try to save him
A BODY has been found in the major search for two-year-old Xielo Maruziva who fell into the River Soar over three months ago.
The discovery was made this morning by workers in the area of Aylestone Meadows near the River Soar.
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Xielo Maruziva, two, slipped into the river on February 18, with his dad desperately leaping in to try to save him.
A major search was launched with specialist divers who helped in the hunt to find missing mum Nicola Bulley.
Specialist Group International (SGI) - headed by expert diver Peter Faulding - trawled the water alongside dozens of others.
.A spokesperson for Leicester Police today confirmed: "The body has been recovered and formal identification will now take place.
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";Specialist officers are providing support to Xielo’s family.
"HM Coroner has been informed."
Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr said: “This is devastating news and our thoughts are with Xielo’s family.
"We are so sorry to bring them this news which we were all dreading and our full support is being provided to them at this most difficult time.
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“Formal identification will now take place and we ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this time.
“Full support is also being provided to the workers who were in the area of Aylestone Meadows this morning and I want to thank them for their support and co-operation in the most horrendous and unimaginable circumstances.”
Cops were first called to the River Soar in Aylestone Meadows at around 5pm on Sunday, February 18, after Xielo fell into the water.
Despite the best efforts of people who were at the scene they were not able to find the toddler.
ACC Kerr added: “Thank you to everyone who has been involved in the search for Xielo for your dedicated work in extremely traumatic circumstances and an extremely complex search. Thank you also to our communities and wider members of the public for your continued support.”
In the days after young Xielo vanished in the river, his loved ones put out a heartbreaking statement.
The tot's mum said: "Xielo is a cheeky, funny, friendly, smart, caring and independent little boy. He never fails to make me laugh or smile and always loves a cuddle and some kisses.
“Xielo loves playing with his toys and watching cartoons including Bino and Fino.
“Me, his dad and the whole family are so heartbroken at what has happened. We thank everyone who has supported us and helped us during this time. We are extremely grateful for this.
“All we want is for Xielo to be found as soon as possible. Thank you.”
Xielo's father added: "Xielo is a bundle of joy to us.
"He is a charming and creative little boy and has just started at nursery.
"He loves cuddles, playing with his toys and going to the park.
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";As a family we have been completely devastated over the past few days as the search for Xielo continues. It is hard to describe the pain and suffering we are going through.
"We would like to thank the search teams at the scene. We would also like to thank members of the public for all of your support. It is your prayers which are keeping us strong."
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