A second boy has now sadly died after getting into difficulty in the River Tyne in Northumberland.
Shortly after 3.30pm on Saturday (May 18), police received a report of concern for the welfare of two teenage boys who were in the river near the bridge at Ovingham.
Emergency and rescue services were immediately sent to the area.
Sadly David Radut, 14, from Newcastle, passed away at the scene.
The second boy – Aras Rudzianskas, 13, also from Newcastle – was taken to hospital. Despite the efforts of medical staff, he tragically passed away yesterday (Tuesday, May 21).
The parents of both boys continue to be supported by specially-trained officers.
Chief Superintendent Sam Rennison, of Northumbria Police, said: “Our sincerest sympathies go to the loved ones of both boys and we will continue to provide whatever support we can at this devastating time.
“Since Saturday, our thoughts and those of the wider community have been with the families and friends of those affected.
“We would ask that the public continue to respect the privacy of the families both online and in the community.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here