Mother and child die after ‘getting into difficulty’ in water at west London park

A mother and young son have died after “getting into difficulty” in water at a park in west London.

Met police officers were called to Elthorne Park, Ealing, just before 4.30pm on Saturday. The park is bordered by the River Brent.

The woman and boy were recovered from the water, but died at the scene.

Police are working to identify their next of kin and have not revealed their ages.

Detective Superintendent Pete Thackray, from the Metropolitan Police‘s West Area Command Unit, said: “This is a tragic incident in which a woman and her young child have lost their lives. Our thoughts are with their loved ones.

“I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of the first responders, and members of the public, who did their very best in an incredibly challenging situation.

“While an investigation into what took place is under way, all initial indications are that the circumstances are not suspicious.”

The tragedy happened on one of the warmest days of the year so far in London. Temperatures reached a high of 21C in Ealing during the afternoon as the sun shone over the capital.

In a post on X, Jon Ball, Liberal Democrat councillor for Ealing Common, said: “My thoughts go out to the family of those involved in the tragic accident in Elthorne Park today.”