Boy, 8, dies in his dad’s arms after drowning in river as cops issue statement on ‘devastating’ tragedy
AN eight-year-old boy has tragically died in his father's arms after drowning in a Warwickshire river.
Joshua Hillstead, from Maypole, Birmingham, was pronounced dead shortly after being pulled from the River Arrow in Alcester on Monday.
The eight-year-old passed away in his father's arms at Birmingham Children's Hospital last night.
A has been created by a close friend of the family in their time of grief.
The message reads: "Hi my name is Kyle Hotchkins and I am fundraising to help the family of Josh Hillstead who horrendously lost his life after coming into difficulty in the River Arrow, Alcester on Monday Evening 22/7/24.
"The 8 year old passed away last night in his Dads arms 23/7/24 in Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
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"As a friend of the family, I have spoken to Josh’s Dad and I want to give them help, so they do not have to worry about anything whilst they are going through this horrendous tragedy."
It comes after Warwickshire Police were called to a report of a young child who had fallen into the river behind Kingfisher Way on July 22.
Police, fire, and ambulance services rushed to the scene at around 9.30pm.
The boy was dragged from the river, before receiving first aid and CPR.
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Joshua was then taken to hospital, where medics battled in vain to save him.
One other child was also in the water but did not require further treatment and was returned home.
Emotional tributes have poured in, one person wrote: "Such a tragedy- thoughts are with the family."
"Heart breaking for all involved . Sending love and strength," penned another.
"My love is with that family Rip beautiful boy fly high," shared someone else.
More added: "This is absolutely devastating my heart goes out to this young boy and his family, sending love and strength to you all."
DI Heidi Twynham said: “Losing a child is devastating, and we offer our condolences to the family after this tragic accident – we are liaising with the family to provide support.
“Fast, unpredictable currents and invisible deeper sections make rivers dangerous places, particularly for children and non-confident swimmers. Please take caution around our waterways.
“Thank you to our officers, members of the emergency services, and the hospital staff for everything you’ve done over the past few days.”
