The family of a 13-year-old who fell to his death from Tower Bridge in London have released two pictures of the schoolboy.
Zaheid Ali, a year 8 pupil from Ark Globe academy in Elephant and Castle, south London, was formally identified after his body was recovered from the Thames on 28 April.
Zaheid was said to have been travelling with a friend on a bus but was reported missing by his school’s headteacher on 20 April. It is understood he left the bus near London Bridge, one stop before he would usually get off for his school.
According to witnesses, a member of the public went into the water to try to save the teenager but managed only to retrieve his schoolbag and jacket as he disappeared under the water.
An inquest into Zaheid’s death will take place shortly, arranged by the Southwark coroner.
City of London police confirmed Zaheid’s age and released two pictures of him from his family, one showing him dressed in his yellow and black school uniform, and another in which he is relaxing on a sofa.
Ark Globe academy is understood to be liaising with Zaheid’s family about how best to commemorate his life.
The school’s executive principal, Matt Jones, said: “Our hearts go out to his family and friends. As a school community, we are pulling together ensuring all our students are supported at this difficult time.”
Zaheid died in the same week as 20-year-old Folajimi Olubunmi-Adewole, who died attempting to rescue a woman who fell from London Bridge.
Police and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution have previously warned that the Thames is “incredibly dangerous” due to fast currents, cold water shock and hidden obstacles.
A spokesperson for City of London police said: “The family of Zaheid Ali has now formally identified the body recovered from the Thames on 28 April as that of Zaheid, who was seen falling into the river on 20 April.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
