Boy, 14, dies and teenager in critical condition after struggling in River Tyne

A 14-year-old boy has died and a 13-year-old boy is in a critical condition after getting into difficulty in the River Tyne at Ovingham on Saturday, Northumbria Police said.

A large emergency response was dispatched to the river in Northumbria following the incident and the youngest boy was taken to hospital for urgent treatment.

Northumbria Police confirmed on Sunday morning that the 14-year-old had died and the younger boy is fighting for his life.

A statement said: “A boy has sadly died after getting into difficulty in the River Tyne in Northumberland.

“Shortly after 3.30pm yesterday (Saturday) police received a report of concerns for the welfare of two teenagers who were in the river near Ovingham Bridge.

“Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene and one of the boys, aged 13, was rescued from the water.

“He was taken to hospital where he is currently in critical condition.

“Several organizations conducted an extensive search of the area in an attempt to locate the second boy.

“Sadly, the body of the 14-year-old was later found in the water and he was pronounced dead at the scene.”

It is understood the boys were friends and from different families.

The parents of the two boys are being supported by specially trained officers, police said.

Chief Superintendent Helena Barron, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an absolutely tragic incident and our thoughts are with the families of both boys at this difficult time as we continue to support them.

“A number of agencies were involved in the incident and their support was hugely appreciated.

“It is with great sadness that we were unable to provide a more positive update.”