Frantic hunt for schoolgirl, 11, ‘who fell in River Thames’ as cop helicopter & coastguard join search

EMERGENCY services have launched a major search and rescue operation after an 11-year-old girl fell into the River Thames.

The terrifying incident occurred this afternoon near Woolwich, London, at Barge House Causeway .

Coast Guard helicopter in flight.
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Helicopters have been deployed in a hunt for an 11-year-old girlCredit: UKNIP
Rescue boat on the river with crew members.
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The child fell in the Thames just at 1.15pm this afternoon in WoolwichCredit: UKNIP
Rescue boat on the River Thames.
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Paramedics are on standby as coastguards scour the river for the schoolgirlCredit: UKNIP

Cops responded to reports of a child falling into the river 1.15pm and raced to the scene with coastguards and paramedics.

A significant emergency response is currently in place, with crews from the Metropolitan Police, London Ambulance Service, and multiple search and rescue teams actively involved.

The operation also includes the Coast Guard, Border Force vessels, and a search and rescue helicopter.

Emergency services were called to the scene shortly after the incident unfolded, and a large presence remains along the riverbank as the search continues.

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Authorities are using boats, drones, and aerial support in a desperate bid to locate the missing child.

Despite the extensive efforts, there has been no confirmation of any recovery at this time.

The Metropolitan Police said: “Police were called at around 13:15hrs on Monday, 31 March to reports of an 11-year-old girl who had entered the River Thames near to Barge House Causeway, E16.

“A large scale response is ongoing, supported by all emergency services, working together to conduct an extensive search in efforts to locate her.

“Her next of kin have been made aware and are being supported by officers.”

The Sun has reached out to London Fire Service and HM Coastguard for a comment.

London Fire Brigade fire rescue boat on the Thames.
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Fire rescue services immediately set out after reports came in this afternoonCredit: George Cracknell Wright
Map showing the location of two helicopters over the River Thames near Woolwich.
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Helicopters have been deployed in a bid to find the childCredit: UKNIP
Rescue boat on the Thames River.
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A fire boat and a boat from the RNLI continue the searchCredit: George Cracknell Wright
Map showing helicopter search pattern over the River Thames near Woolwich.
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The helicopter took a zig-zagged route over the Woolwich area in an attempt to spot the girlCredit: UKNIP