Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Abigail Nicholson

Schoolboy, six, dies after falling through icy lake in Solihull

A six year old schoolboy who was in critical condition after falling through an icy lake has died.

West Midlands Police confirmed in a statement on Wednesday, December 14, that a six-year-old boy, who was in a critical condition after falling into Babbs Mill Lake in Solihull, has died. Three more boys, aged 11, 10 and eight, were taken to hospital after the incident, but could not be revived.

In a statement on Twitter, police said: "It is with heartfelt sadness that we have to report this afternoon, the six-year-old in hospital has lost his fight for life. Our deepest sympathies are with the families and friends of those involved in this tragedy.

READ MORE: 'Untouchable drug gang' targeted by 200 officers in morning raids

"We cannot comprehend the enormity of the pain they must feel and our hearts go out to them. Specialist officers remain in contact with the family and we will issue further information as soon as we can.

"The searches have been completed and the scene of the incident at the lake will be lifted this evening."

The little boy had spent the last four days fighting for his life in intensive care after emergency service workers and members of the public rushed to Babbs Mill Lake on Sunday when the youngsters fell into the icy water.

A police officer smashed through ice with their bare hands to get to the boys. That officer was left with mild hypothermia and was treated in hospital before being discharged.

A community has been left rocked and devastated as it comes to terms with this terrible loss.

A sea of flowers, balloons, teddies, toys and cards with heartfelt messages have formed a growing community shrine. There will be a vigil for the victims, affectionately called the “Babbs Mill boys” on Saturday, December 17 at 4pm at the lake.

READ NEXT

Parents feared 'eating Christmas dinner on floor' after DFS 'lose sofa'

Police surround street as woman's body found in home

Why it's barely snowed in Liverpool but parts of UK have been covered in snow

Baby found dead after being left in shed by parents

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.