A major search operation is underway in South Yorkshire for an 11-year-old boy who went missing after being seen entering the River Don in Mexborough. Police were called to the scene at 7:59 pm on Saturday, launching a large-scale multi-agency rescue effort that has continued into Sunday.
The schoolboy was witnessed entering the water, and authorities have since confirmed that items left on the riverbank have helped them pinpoint the exact location where the child entered the river. Despite the ongoing search, there has been no sign of the missing youngster as of Sunday morning.
Coordinated Rescue Effort
Doncaster Response Team Inspector Neil Pryce provided details of the extensive operation now underway. "We know, from witnesses and items left on the riverbank, where the boy entered the water," Pryce said in a statement. "Utilising specialist knowledge and skills, a coordinated multi-agency operation is under way and we are doing everything we can to find this young man."
The search involves multiple emergency services working in close coordination. South Yorkshire Police confirmed that officers are being assisted by the National Police Air Service, which has deployed a helicopter to search from above, while drones are also being used to scan the river and surrounding areas. An underwater search team is working in the water itself, while South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Yorkshire Ambulance Service are also part of the response.
Public Urged to Stay Away
Inspector Pryce made a direct appeal to the public, asking that only trained personnel involved in the operation enter the River Don. "This is a tragic incident and we understand that members of the public want to do all they can to help but we must ask that, for everyone's safety, only those who are involved in our operation enter the River Don," he said.
The warning comes as authorities emphasize the dangers of open water, particularly for untrained individuals who might be tempted to join the search effort.
Tragic Context of Recent Heatwave
The search for the 11-year-old boy follows a series of similar tragedies across the UK. Several young people have died after getting into difficulty in open water during the recent heatwave, which saw temperatures soar and many seek relief in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
Water safety charities have repeatedly warned that cold water shock, hidden currents, and submerged hazards make swimming in open water far more dangerous than many realize, even for strong swimmers. The deaths of young people in recent weeks have prompted renewed calls for better water safety education in schools and communities.
Ongoing Operation
As Sunday progresses, search teams continue to comb the River Don in the Mexborough area. Police have not released the boy's name, and next of kin are understood to be receiving support from specially trained family liaison officers.
Local residents have expressed shock and sadness at the incident, with many gathering near the riverbank to await news. Authorities have asked that people avoid the immediate area to allow emergency crews to work unhindered. The search is expected to continue throughout the day, with updates to follow as the operation develops.
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May 31, 2026
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