Agony continues for family of missing 11-year-old boy, Mackenzie Swift, as police search continues
“Every parent's worst nightmare”
The agony continues for the family and friends of a missing 11-year-old boy who vanished in the River Don in Mexborough.
A major search operation was mounted just after 8pm on Saturday, May 30, following reports that Mackenzie Swift disappeared after entering the river near Ferry Boat Lane.
South Yorkshire Police and partner agencies including South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue service, Woodhead Mountain Rescue, and an underwater search team have been involved in the search.
Last night, it emerged that police family liaison officers had a “heartbreaking conversation” with Mackenzie’s family about the likelihood of the young boy having survived in the water this length of time.
A SYP spokesperson said: “Sadly none of our enquiries so far have found any indication that he got out of the water.
“His family are in all of our thoughts and prayers, and are being supported and kept updated on the progress of the search operation.”
Doncaster District Commander, Chief Superintendent Pete Thorp, said: “We will continue to do everything in our power to find Mackenzie and to support his family through this incredibly difficult time.
“They truly are living every parent's worst nightmare.
“We are utilising a range of specialist resources and organisations from across the region.”
He said the search would resume at first light today.
“I understand members of the public are desperate to help, but I must ask that you leave this work to the professional search teams,” he added.
“ Please do not put yourselves or others in danger by searching in and around water, and if asked to leave by officers, please understand this is for your own safety and to ensure our efforts focus solely on finding Mackenzie.
“The thoughts of all those involved in the extensive search operation remain with Mackenzie and his family. “