Tragedy on the Thames: 11-Year-Old Kaliyah Coa Confirmed Dead After River Fall
Nationwide — Heartbreak rippled through the UK as the family of 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa confirmed her death following a devastating accident on March 31. The young girl, described by loved ones as a bright and cherished soul, fell into the River Thames near Barge House Causeway in North Woolwich around 1:23 p.m. while attending a birthday party on a school inset day.
After nearly two agonizing weeks of searching, police recovered a body from the Thames on the morning of April 13, near Maritime Quay on the Isle of Dogs. Formal identification confirmed on April 29 that the body was Kaliyah.
In a deeply emotional statement, her family expressed the profound loss they now face:
“Our hearts are broken and our lives will never be the same. We were blessed to have Kaliyah, even if it was for such a short time. She will be missed so much.”
They extended heartfelt thanks to all those who helped during the search and have asked for privacy as they grieve.
Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, who led the investigation, described the incident as a “tragic accident.” He also urged the public to refrain from spreading misinformation and to respect the family’s request for space and compassion during this difficult time.
An inquest into Kaliyah’s death is scheduled to begin on Friday, May 2.
